Kannur: Joint Commissioner of Land Revenue, A. Geetha, in charge of the investigation into the death of Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu, arrived at the Kannur Collectorate to take the statement of District Collector Arun K Vijayan. The collector stated that he fully supports the investigation and will cooperate. He assured the investigation team that he will be transparent throughout the process.

Amid the ongoing probe, reports indicate that the pressure to replace the collector is intensifying within the revenue department. A final decision will be made after consultations with the Chief Minister. Kerala Students Union (KSU) Vice President, P Muhammed Shammas has also submitted a complaint to the Chief Minister, urging action against the collector in connection with the incident.

Naveen Babu's family has expressed their dissatisfaction with the collector, and several political leaders, including Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesan. Kannur BJP district president N Haridas, have publicly criticised the collector. They allege that it was Arun K. Vijayan who invited former CPM District Panchayat President PP Divya to the ADM’s farewell function. The BJP has gone a step further, sending letters to the Union Home Ministry, requesting an inquiry into the collector's role.

Adding to the tension, CPI leaders have also voiced discontent with the collector's actions. During the state executive meeting on Thursday, they reportedly conveyed their concerns directly to Revenue Minister K Rajan. The farewell function that has sparked controversy was organised by the collector, despite Naveen Babu’s reluctance to attend.

The farewell function for ADM Naveen Babu had originally been scheduled for Monday morning. However, the timing was later changed to the evening, reportedly to accommodate PP Divya’s attendance. It is also alleged that the collector should have intervened when Divya directly confronted the ADM during the function.