India, Sept. 24 -- Leaders of the ruling UDF and opposition LDF in Kerala on Thursday, September 24, denied BJP allegations that political leaders from both fronts had received illegal payments from mining company Cochin Minerals and Rutile Limited (CMRL).

Health Minister K Muraleedharan acknowledged that he had received election funding from CMRL managing director Sasidharan Kartha several years ago while contesting an election, but said there was nothing improper about it.

"There is nothing to hide. Years ago, during the election, support was given," Muraleedharan told reporters.

He said election funding and illegal gratification were two different things, adding that political parties routinely received donations during elections. ...