Kochi: The Kerala High Court division bench upheld the single bench verdict rejecting a CBI probe into the death of Naveen Babu, who was serving as the ADM of Kannur. The single bench had earlier directed that the case investigation should be conducted under the supervision of a DIG. The division bench, comprising Justices P B Suresh Kumar and Jobin Sebastian, dismissed the appeal filed by Naveen Babu's wife Manjusha against the single bench order.

Appearing for the state, DGP T A Shaji informed the court that the ongoing investigation was effective.

‘Deeply disappointed’: Manjusha
Expressing deep disappointment over the division bench's decision, Manjusha said she would decide on further measures after consultation. She said that justice would only be served if the probe was handed over to the CBI, as the Kerala Police was protecting key accused and the current investigation was not progressing satisfactorily.

Manjusha had argued in court that she suspected Naveen Babu was murdered and hanged. She also highlighted lapses in the inquest and post-mortem procedures. The decision to conduct the post-mortem at Pariyaram Medical College was revoked initially, but it was later carried out hastily at the same hospital. These points were presented by Manjusha to substantiate her demand for a CBI investigation.

Despite acknowledging the gravity of the arguments, the single bench ruled that a special investigation team would suffice and rejected the plea for a CBI probe — a stance upheld by the division bench.

‘Fight will continue’: PP Divya
Following the division bench’s rejection of the demand for a CBI probe, accused P P Divya shared a Facebook post. The post featured artwork and illustrations by artist Ponnyam Chandran. "Every crisis should be overcome at any moment. The strength to witness injustice with open eyes and the courage to voice opinions should never be surrendered. The fight will continue," read Divya's post.