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 today rejected a plea by Manjusha, widow of former Kannur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu, seeking a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into his death. While denying the CBI investigation, 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, found dead at his residence on October 15, 2024, was initially suspected to have committed suicide following accusations of corruption made by former Kannur District Panchayat President P.P. Divya at his farewell function the previous day. Divya was arrested and later released on bail.

Manjusha, however, argued that her husband’s death was not a suicide, citing alleged lapses in the initial inquest and a potential cover-up by the SIT. She accused the SIT of failing to collect crucial evidence, including CCTV footage, and alleged that the investigation was not progressing effectively. She further claimed the SIT encouraged the fabrication of evidence against her husband.

The court, while acknowledging Manjusha’s concerns, found insufficient evidence to warrant a CBI investigation. However, it ordered the SIT to thoroughly investigate the possibility of homicidal hanging and address the grievances raised by the petitioner. The SIT is mandated to submit periodic progress reports to the Kannur DIG and inform Manjusha of the investigation’s progress. The final report will require the DIG’s approval before submission. The prosecution countered Manjusha’s claims stating a lack of evidence to prove police negligence.

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