Mon Jan 06 05:56:54 UTC 2025: ## Kerala High Court Rejects CBI Probe into ADM’s Death, Orders Enhanced Investigation

**Kochi, January 6, 2025** – The Kerala High Court on Monday rejected a plea by the wife of former Kannur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu, seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into his death. While denying the plea, Justice Kauser Edappagath directed the Kannur Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) to oversee the ongoing investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT), ensuring fairness and efficiency.

Naveen Babu was found dead at his residence on October 15, 2024, with police initially suspecting suicide following allegations of corruption leveled against him. His wife, Manjusha, argued that the circumstances surrounding his death suggested foul play, alleging hasty inquest procedures, the concealment of evidence, and the fabrication of false evidence by the SIT. She specifically pointed to the lack of family presence during the inquest and the failure to secure crucial CCTV footage.

The court, however, ordered the SIT to investigate the possibility of homicidal hanging, address Manjusha’s concerns, and submit periodic progress reports to the DIG. The final report will require the DIG’s approval. The prosecution argued that Manjusha failed to provide sufficient evidence of police misconduct. The SIT previously arrested and later released on bail former Kannur District Panchayat President P.P. Divya, who had publicly accused Babu of corruption. The case continues under the enhanced supervision of the Kannur DIG.

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