On October 15, 2024, the lifeless body of Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu was discovered in his official quarters in Kannur, Kerala. This incident, initially perceived as a suicide, soon became the center of a contentious legal and political battle, primarily driven by his wife, Manjusha, who sought a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into her husband's untimely death.
Circumstances Leading to the Death
A day prior to his death, during his official farewell function, ADM Naveen Babu faced public humiliation. P.P. Divya, a member of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the then-President of the Kannur District Panchayat, accused Babu of corruption. She alleged that he had delayed issuing a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for a fuel outlet, insinuating that this delay was due to corrupt practices. These allegations, made in a public forum, were believed to have caused immense mental distress to Babu. The very next day, he was found hanging in his residence.
Initial Reactions and Investigations
Following Babu's death, the local police initiated an investigation, treating it as a case of suicide. However, Manjusha expressed dissatisfaction with the police probe, alleging lapses and potential biases, especially given Divya's political stature. She claimed that the police were attempting to protect Divya, who faced abetment to suicide charges. Manjusha's concerns were further amplified when she asserted that her husband's death was not a suicide but a murder. In light of these allegations, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by Kannur City Police Commissioner Ajit Kumar was constituted to delve deeper into the case.
Petition for a CBI Probe
Unsatisfied with the progress and direction of the SIT's investigation, Manjusha filed a petition before the Kerala High Court on November 26, 2024, seeking a CBI investigation. She highlighted several discrepancies in the police's approach, including the premature conclusion of suicide without completing the inquest and autopsy. Manjusha also feared that Divya's political influence could intimidate witnesses and compromise the integrity of the investigation.
State's Opposition to the CBI Probe
The Kerala state government opposed the petition for a CBI probe. The Director General of Prosecution, T.A. Shaji, submitted that the SIT was investigating all possible angles of the case and that there were no allegations of bias or foul play from the side of the police. He argued that the demand for a CBI probe was based on mere inferences and surmises without any cogent evidence. Shaji further contended that Divya, who had resigned from all party posts, was incapable of exerting any sort of pressure on the police.
High Court's Decision
On January 6, 2025, the Kerala High Court dismissed Manjusha's petition seeking a CBI probe into her husband's death. Justice Kauser Edappagath, while rejecting the plea, directed the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Kannur to supervise the ongoing SIT investigation. The court mandated that the SIT submit periodic reports to the DIG to showcase the progress of the investigation. Furthermore, the SIT was instructed to consider the grievances highlighted by Manjusha and to explore the possibility of homicidal hanging, as alleged by her. The court also emphasized that the final report should only be filed after obtaining approval from the DIG.
Appeal Against the High Court's Decision
Unyielding in her pursuit of justice, Manjusha filed a writ appeal challenging the High Court's refusal to order a CBI probe. She argued that the investigation lacked credibility and that the accused could influence witnesses and destroy evidence due to their ties with the ruling political party. Manjusha contended that the court ought to have considered this as a rare and exceptional case warranting a CBI probe.
Dismissal of the Writ Appeal
On March 3, 2025, the Division Bench of the Kerala High Court, comprising Justice P.B. Suresh Kumar and Justice Jobin Sebastian, dismissed Manjusha's writ appeal. The detailed order of the court is awaited.
Public and Media Reactions
The case garnered significant attention from both the public and the media. The involvement of a political figure, allegations of corruption, and the tragic death of a senior administrative officer led to widespread discussions about the pressures faced by public servants and the influence of politics on administrative functions. Various media outlets provided extensive coverage, highlighting the legal proceedings, the family's quest for justice, and the broader implications for the administrative machinery in the state.
Conclusion
The death of ADM Naveen Babu has not only brought to light the personal tragedy of a family but has also underscored the intricate nexus between politics and administration. The persistent efforts of his wife, Manjusha, to seek an impartial investigation reflect the challenges faced by individuals when confronting systemic structures. As the legal avenues continue to be explored, the case serves as a poignant reminder of the need for transparency, accountability, and the protection of integrity within public institutions.
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