The Kerala High Court has called for a state response regarding a petition filed by the widow of the late Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu, demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry into his mysterious death. The plea implicates former Kannur District Panchayat President PP Divya in potentially obstructing justice.
Justice Bechu Kurian Thomas, overseeing the proceedings, issued a notice to both the State and the CBI, emphasizing the gravity of the allegations which include misuse of political influence to sway the investigation. Advocate John S. Ralph, representing the petitioner, articulated concerns over possible evidence tampering and obstruction that could shield PP Divya from scrutiny.
Naveen Babu was found deceased in his official residence on October 15, under circumstances that raised immediate alarms within his family and community, especially following allegations of corruption by PP Divya during a farewell event marking his transfer. Subsequently, Divya was charged with abetting Babu’s suicide but secured anticipatory bail earlier this month.
In a detailed petition, Babu’s widow highlighted multiple irregularities surrounding the investigation conducted by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), including the hasty inquest conducted in absence of Babu’s close relatives and the failure to secure crucial evidence like CCTV footage and phone records. The petition also voices the widow’s distress over the intimidation faced by potential witnesses due to Divya’s extensive political network.
The court has refrained from issuing interim orders that would prevent the Investigating Officer from filing a final report but expects a comprehensive statement by December 6, when the case is set for further review.
