Kochi: Manjusha, wife of Naveen Babu, Kannur ADM who passed away recently, has alleged that leaders of the ruling CPM are obstructing an unhindered investigation into his death. In a petition filed in the Kerala High Court, she has called for a CBI probe into the matter.

Manjusha's petition claims that the formation of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is not in line with proper procedures, allowing CPM leaders to influence the investigation. She argues that statements from state leaders indicate that the investigation may be guided by political interests rather than facts.

Questions raised about Collector’s role

The petition also raises concerns about a supposed ‘unholy alliance’ between the accused and the Kannur District Collector. Manjusha questions the credibility of a statement allegedly made by Naveen Babu, where he admitted to a mistake. According to the family, the statement cannot be trusted as a politically influential accused person might have influenced the Collector.

There are also doubts about the cause of death. The police have stated there was no suicide note, which the family believes raises suspicion that it could have been a murder. They fear that the SIT might be hiding crucial evidence, such as a possible suicide note, to protect the accused.

Call for a thorough investigation

Naveen Babu’s family argues that key evidence, such as CCTV footage from the Collectorate premises, staff quarters, and the nearby railway station, has not been collected.

The family also challenges the authenticity of the letter allegedly sent to the Chief Minister, which claimed Naveen had taken a bribe from Prasanthan. They believe the letter was fabricated. They are also suspicious of the police handling of the case, particularly the haste with which an inquest was prepared before the family had arrived at the scene.

The petition also alleges that the police are encouraging former district panchayat president Divya to fabricate evidence in the case, raising more questions about the integrity of the investigation. The SIT is also not showing any interest in collecting evidence.