Kerala: Kannur Court Grants Bail to Divya in ADM Naveen Babu Suicide Case

Kannur- CPI-M leader P.P. is in Kannur, Kerala. Divya walked out of Kannur Women's Jail on Friday after securing bail in connection with the suicide case of Kannur ADM Naveen Babu. Divya, who had been in custody since October 29, expressed confidence in her innocence, stating, "I will prove my innocence and I trust the judiciary. Just like the family of Naveen Babu, I too wish the same that a thorough probe should take place into the whole incident."

The bail decision, announced by a Kannur court earlier in the day, comes after a hearing on Tuesday that involved the defense, prosecution, and Babu's family. Divya's counsel expressed confidence in her innocence, emphasizing that the truth will emerge during the trial. Her counsel stated that the bail was expected as there were guidelines for everything.

Following her release, Divya expressed sorrow over Babu's death, stating, “I am deeply sad over the death of Naveen Babu. I have been in the public domain for the past nearly two decades. All along I have cooperated with officials and all that I said was without any malice.”

Manjusha, Babu's wife, declined to comment on the bail decision, stating that she and her family would consult with their counsel before determining their next steps.

Divya's arrest stems from her attendance at Babu's send-off function on October 14, where she made critical remarks about him. The incident, which occurred despite Divya not being invited to the event, has drawn scrutiny, particularly as Kannur District Collector Arun Vijayan remained silent during the event. Babu committed suicide the next day.

Following the incident, Divya resigned from her position as Kannur district panchayath President and was on the run for several days before surrendering to the police probe team on October 29. Her anticipatory bail plea was subsequently rejected.