Kerala HC Dismisses Plea For CBI Probe Into Ex-Kannur ADM’s Death

Kerala High Court

The Kerala High Court on Monday, issued a ruling dismissing a petition that sought an investigation by the Central Bureau of Investigation into the death of former Kannur Additional District Magistrate Naveen Babu.

This decision was rendered in response to an appeal challenging the single bench’s prior dismissal of a petition filed by Babu’s widow, who had petitioned for the transfer of the investigation into her husband’s alleged suicide from the state police to the CBI.

Subsequent to the ruling, Babu’s family expressed their discontent with the ongoing inquiry being conducted by the Kerala Police’s Special Investigation Team. They articulated their intention to pursue further legal remedies by approaching the Supreme Court, underscoring their dissatisfaction with the state-led investigation.

Case Background

Previously, on January 6, the single bench had dismissed the family’s petition while simultaneously directing the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Kannur to assume supervisory oversight of the SIT’s investigative proceedings.

Babu’s death, allegedly by suicide, occurred in Kannur following public accusations of corruption levied against him by former Kannur District Panchayat President P.P. Divya during his farewell ceremony.

On October 14 of the preceding year, Divya, a CPI(M) leader, made an unanticipated appearance at the event and accused Babu of intentionally obstructing the approval process for a petrol pump project in Chengalai.

She further alleged that his authorization of the project—issued merely two days after his transfer—suggested irregularities and potential misconduct.

In the aftermath of Babu’s death, law enforcement authorities proceeded to arrest Divya in connection with the incident. Meanwhile, Manjusha, Babu’s widow, petitioned the High Court, contending that the investigation lacked rigor and transparency.

She additionally raised apprehensions regarding potential political interference, citing Divya’s extensive political influence and affiliations as a factor that could compromise the integrity of the probe.