Biju Radhakrishnan, a prime accused in the solar panel scam, on Saturday cross-examined his partner and co-accused Saritha S Nair during in-camera proceedings held in the chamber of the Judicial Commission probing the scandal.
The Justice G Sivarajan-headed commission, which is probing the scam, allowed only court officer, stenographer and commission lawyer, besides Biju Radhakrishnan, Saritha and her advocate during the cross-examination held in-camera.
Earlier, Saritha had filed a petition before the Commission seeking holding of the cross-examination by Biju in-camera as her relationship with him is not on good terms.
Opposing open court proceedings, she alleged that Biju Radhakrishnan's apparent intention was to "defame" her in public and through media.
Though Roshan D Alexander, government pleader, and a lawyer appearing for Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, argued that they should be allowed during the in-camera proceedings, the Commission ruled against it.
However, the commission said they would be informed and their version would be heard if anything affecting the reputation of their parties is mentioned during the cross-examination.
The development came a day after Saritha produced a sealed envelope containing details of her sexual abuse by "powerful politicians" in Kerala.
This came on the same day, as senior Congress leader A K Antony threw his weight behind Kerala's beleaguered chief minister and said that the controversies surrounding the state government would not affect the party-led UDF's electoral prospects in the coming Assembly polls.
"The continuation of UDF rule is necessary for the better future of Kerala. I don't think controversies will affect its electoral prospects," Antony told reporters.
Speaking on the solar scam, Antony said the Justice G Sivarajan Panel, probing the scandal was appointed on the basis of demands raised by opposition parties.
He criticised the Left parties and BJP for demanding resignation of the Chandy-government merely on the basis of statement by one accused.
"So they (the opposition) should show patience. They should wait for the Commission report," Antony said, adding, action should be taken against those found guilty in the scam.
"No decision can be taken on the basis of an accused's statement," he added.