The Kerala High Court on Monday dismissed a plea requesting a CBI probe into the death of former Kannur Additional District Magistrate Naveen Babu.
Justice Kauser Edappagath turned down the petition filed by Babu’s widow, Manjusha, who sought to transfer the ongoing investigation to the CBI.
Furthermore, Court instructed the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Kannur to monitor the ongoing investigation led by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). The plea arose due to concerns over the efficiency and impartiality of the current probe.
Case History
Naveen Babu’s death, which was reported as a suicide, followed accusations of corruption leveled against him by former Kannur District Panchayat President P P Divya. During Babu’s farewell function on October 14 last year, Divya allegedly attended without invitation and accused him of deliberately delaying the approval of a petrol pump project in Chengalai. She further insinuated that Babu’s sudden approval of the project 2 days after his transfer suggested improper conduct.
Subsequently, Divya was taken into custody by the police in connection with her statements and the controversy surrounding the incident. Dissatisfied with the progress of the SIT’s investigation, Manjusha filed a petition, citing concerns that Divya’s political clout might hinder a fair inquiry.
In her plea, Manjusha alleged that the SIT’s investigation lacked direction and claimed, “no substantial progress has been made by the present agency.” She emphasized that key evidence had not been adequately pursued, raising doubts about the integrity of the investigation.
Despite the court’s dismissal, Manjusha declared her intention to appeal the decision. Speaking to the media, she said, “This is not the final order, and we will explore all possible legal options.” Her decision to seek a CBI probe was driven by a lack of confidence in the SIT’s ability to conduct a comprehensive and unbiased investigation.
The case has garnered widespread public interest due to the involvement of prominent individuals and the serious nature of the allegations. Legal experts suggest that the outcome of this case could have broader implications for governance and accountability in Kerala.
Manjusha’s determination to pursue an independent inquiry reflects her ongoing quest for justice. As she prepares to file an appeal, the legal and political ramifications of the case are expected to unfold in the coming weeks.
