Kerala: IAS Officer Alleges Phone Hacked, Denies Admin Role in Hindu Officers' WhatsApp Group

Thiruvananthapuram- The Kerala Police have intensified their investigation into a controversial WhatsApp group named 'Mallu Hindu Officers,' allegedly administered by Kerala Industry and Commerce Director K. Gopalakrishnan, an IAS officer. The probe was launched two days after State Industries Minister P. Rajeeve assured an investigation into the matter.

Gopalakrishnan has filed a complaint alleging his phone was hacked, claiming the group was created without his knowledge. The police have seized both of Gopalakrishnan's mobile phones, an Android and an iPhone, the latter being the device on which the group was created.

According to sources, the police have made some progress in their investigation with the help of WhatsApp and Meta. The group, which contained 11 Hindu IAS officers, came to light last week and quickly sparked controversy. Gopalakrishnan informed authorities of the group's existence after it disappeared from his phone. He subsequently filed a complaint with the Kerala Police's Cyber wing, alleging his phone had been compromised.

The incident came to light after some members added to the group expressed concerns. Gopalakrishnan alerted the group members with a message stating, "Dear all, it appears that someone has taken control of my mobile device, creating 11 groups and adding all my contacts. I have uninstalled the app, manually removed the groups from my WhatsApp, and will be changing my phone soon." He labeled the message "Important Notice."

Minister Rajeeve, who oversees Gopalakrishnan's work, stated that the entire incident would be thoroughly investigated. He also acknowledged media reports regarding a similar group of Muslim officials.