The Kerala High Court has declined to direct a CBI investigation into the death of former Kannur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu. 

Naveen Babu was discovered dead in his official quarters on October 15, 2024. His wife alleged that the death was a result of homicidal hanging and accused CPM member and former Kannur District Panchayat President, PP Divya, of being responsible, urging for a CBI probe into the matter. 

Justice Kauser Edappagath directed the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Kannur to oversee the ongoing Special Investigation Team (SIT) inquiry. 

The counsel representing Naveen Babu's wife contended that CPM member PP Divya, leveraging her political influence, was being aided by the police in fabricating evidence in her favor. They argued that only an impartial agency like the CBI could ensure a fair and unbiased investigation into the matter.  

On the other hand, Director General of Prosecution T.A. Shaji submitted that the Special Investigation Team (SIT) was thoroughly examining all aspects of the case. He further argued that there were no allegations of bias or misconduct against the police in the ongoing investigation.

Shaji further contended that the demand for a CBI probe was based solely on inferences and assumptions, lacking any substantial evidence to support the claims. He also submitted that Divya, having resigned from all party positions, was in no position to exert any influence or pressure on the police.

It was alleged that ADM Naveen Babu faced public humiliation at the hands of CPM member and former Kannur District Panchayat President, PP Divya, during his farewell function. Reportedly, in her speech at the event, Divya accused the deceased of corruption related to the issuance of a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for opening a fuel outlet and allegedly threatened him.

It is further alleged that Divya deliberately left the farewell function before the memento was presented to ADM Naveen Babu, intending to insult him. Additionally, it is claimed that she invited a local television channel to cover the event, aiming to publicly humiliate the deceased.