Additional District Magistrate Found Dead in Kerala Following Corruption Allegations at Farewell Ceremony

A senior official in Kerala, Naveen Babu K, was discovered dead at his official residence on Tuesday. This occurred a day after he faced corruption allegations during his farewell ceremony. Babu, who was the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of Kannur, was set to assume a new role in Pathanamthitta. His death has stirred significant controversy in the state.

The incident has led to political turmoil, with the opposition Congress demanding the resignation of P P Divya, the district panchayat president. Congress leaders claim that Divya's public accusations during Babu's farewell ceremony contributed to his death. They are calling for her arrest and a thorough investigation into the matter.

Allegations and Reactions

During the farewell event, Divya criticised Babu for delaying the approval of a petrol pump in Chengalai. She alleged that he granted approval only after being transferred and hinted at knowing the reasons behind this decision. Divya left the stage abruptly after her speech, refusing to participate in further proceedings.

Kerala Revenue Minister K Rajan expressed sorrow over Babu's death and promised a serious investigation. He noted that there were no formal complaints against Babu regarding corruption. In a veiled reference to Divya, Rajan emphasised that elected officials should act with maturity and awareness when addressing public issues.

Investigation and Protests

The police conducted an inquest but did not find any suicide note. However, the Youth Congress accused them of destroying evidence to shield those responsible. Meanwhile, Babu's family rejected claims of corruption, highlighting their long-standing association with Left-backed organisations.

Prasanthan, who sought approval for a petrol pump, alleged he paid a bribe to Babu for a No Objection Certificate (NOC). He claimed Babu delayed the process for six months and demanded money at his residence. Prasanthan also filed a complaint with Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

Political Fallout

The BJP joined protests demanding Divya's resignation and called for legal action against her. The CPIM expressed condolences over Babu's death but defended Divya's remarks as constructive criticism against corruption. They acknowledged that such concerns are often raised by constituents but suggested it was inappropriate during a farewell event.

Babu's wife and children discovered his absence when they went to Chengannur railway station to meet him on Tuesday morning. Unable to contact him by phone, they reached out to his colleagues in Kannur, who found him hanging at his quarters.

Leader of Opposition V D Satheesan labelled Babu's death as equivalent to murder, criticising Divya's behaviour as arrogant and disrespectful. He demanded an investigation to hold those responsible accountable.

The CPIM has urged the government to investigate all complaints related to this incident thoroughly. They stressed the importance of understanding the context of recent events while ensuring justice is served.