Naveen Babu death: Manjusha files appeal at HC against rejection of CBI probe
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Kochi: Manjusha, wife of former Kannur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu, has filed a writ appeal before the Kerala High Court challenging its earlier refusal to order a CBI investigation into her husband's death, reported LiveLaw.
Naveen Babu was found hanging inside his official quarters on October 15, 2024. His wife has alleged foul play, asserting that the investigation by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is flawed and lacks credibility. She accused CPM leader PP Divya of abetting his suicide by publicly humiliating him at his farewell function. Citing Divya’s political influence within the ruling LDF government, Manjusha claimed that the police were aiding in fabricating evidence to shield the accused.
In its January 6 order, the High Court rejected her plea for a CBI probe, stating that the mere political connections of the accused were not sufficient grounds to transfer the investigation. The court also observed that the petitioner failed to highlight any substantial flaws in the ongoing probe that warranted intervention by the central agency.
However, in her appeal, Manjusha argued that Divya is not just affiliated with the ruling party but is an influential leader capable of influencing witnesses and destroying evidence. She reiterated her belief that Babu’s death was a homicide involving a larger conspiracy, implicating the Kannur District Collector and a close associate of Divya’s husband. Despite raising concerns over possible foul play, she stated that SIT had failed to explore this angle.
Manjusha also expressed a lack of confidence in the current probe, alleging that investigators were overlooking critical aspects, displaying a lack of seriousness, and risking a miscarriage of justice. She urged the court to consider the exceptional nature of the case and order a CBI inquiry to ensure a fair and impartial investigation.