In her statement, CPM member PP Divya, has refuted claims that she entered the farewell function of former ADM Naveen Babu uninvited. Divya stated that she was informed about the event by the Kannur Collector during another programme and was officially invited to attend it. She emphasised that her remarks were intended to be constructive.

Divya's comments come in the wake of an anticipatory bail application submitted to the Thalassery Principal Sessions Court, following allegations of abetment to suicide against her. She clarified that she had not planned to speak at the event but was prompted to do so by Deputy Collector Shruti, highlighting that discussions of corruption were pertinent to the responsibilities of the attendees.

Also Read

placeholder

ADM's suicide: Kannur Collector apologizes to Naveen Babu's family

Divya pointed out that the District Collector had informed her about the farewell event on the morning it took place. This has given way to questions whether discussions concerning corruption had occurred with the Collector.

Earlier claims

However, during her speech, Divya stated, "I came to know about the event only upon passing by." This statement contrasts with the claims made in her anticipatory bail plea. She asserted that she had no intention of pushing anyone towards suicide and would not evade the investigation, citing her severely ill father as a reason to prevent her arrest.

Moreover, the bail application includes allegations against Naveen Babu, suggesting that he had previously faced accusations of delaying files, with a person named Gangadharan having lodged complaints against him. Divya reiterated that the intent of her remarks was to expedite file processing.

The complete transcript of her speech has been submitted as part of the bail application, which will be reviewed by the court on Saturday.

Naveen Babu was found dead in his quarters in Pallikkunnu, Kannur, on Tuesday morning. Divya has accused Naveen of engaging in corruption in relation with issuance of an NOC for a petrol pump, asserting that she has all necessary information and will disclose it when required. Following Naveen Babu's death, Divya was removed from her position as District Panchayat President by the CPM.