ADM death case: Kerala govt to hand over probe to CBI over family demand

Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government has decided to hand over the case related to the death of Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The move comes in response to a long-standing demand raised by Naveen Babu’s family.

An official notification transferring the case to the CBI is expected to be issued soon. Once the recommendation reaches the central agency, the CBI will take a final decision on whether to take up the investigation.

The case is currently under consideration of the Supreme Court. The case reached the Supreme Court when the victim’s wife, Manjusha, sought a CBI probe, which the apex court ultimately dismissed, upholding the High Court’s decision. 

Family’s demand and response from government

The decision follows dissatisfaction expressed by the family over the ongoing police investigation. They had raised concerns and suspected mystery surrounding the circumstances of the incident, prompting renewed calls for a central agency probe.

The family had met Chief Minister VD Satheesan recently to convey their concerns directly. At that time, Chief Minister Satheesan is reported to have assured them that the case would be referred to the CBI if the investigation was not satisfactory.

Following the government’s decision, Naveen Babu’s brother Praveen Babu said the move was reassuring and expressed hope in the CBI investigation. Babu’s wife Manjusha says she trusts the UDF government.

Case background and legal context

This is the first case in which the new UDF government has recommended a CBI investigation since taking office.

Earlier, the previous CPM-led LDF government had withdrawn the general consent allowing the CBI to directly take up cases in the state, making a specific recommendation from the state government necessary in this instance.

Naveen Babu was found dead on October 15, 2024, in his quarters at Kannur. His death came shortly after a farewell ceremony held at the Collectorate, where then District Panchayat President and CPM leader PP Divya had publicly criticised him. Divya faces charges for abetting the suicide of Naveen Babu.