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The arrest of PP Divya, a prominent leader of the Communist Party of India (Marxist) or CPM, in connection with the suicide of a senior government official has sent shockwaves through Kerala's political landscape. Divya, the former president of the Kannur district panchayat, was taken into custody on October 29th after a local court rejected her anticipatory bail plea. This decision followed the registration of a case against Divya by the Kannur police for allegedly abetting the suicide of Naveen Babu, the Additional District Magistrate (ADM) of Kannur.
The case stems from a public send-off function held for Babu on October 14th. It was during this event that Divya, reportedly uninvited, made highly critical remarks against Babu. She accused him of corruption, specifically citing delays in approving a petrol pump application and questioning the timing of a no-objection certificate (NOC) issued just before his transfer. The following day, Babu was found dead at his official quarters. Divya's strong accusations and the subsequent suicide have fueled intense public scrutiny and speculation, raising questions about the role her words may have played in Babu's tragic demise.
Divya’s defense, however, rested on the argument that her remarks were based on corruption complaints she had received. Her lawyer argued that the District Collector had invited her to the send-off function, despite the prosecution presenting evidence suggesting otherwise. The prosecution contended that Divya’s actions were premeditated and aimed at influencing the investigation, further arguing that her removal as District Panchayat President by the CPM after the suicide allegation further solidified the severity of her actions.
This case has profound implications for political accountability and the impact of public statements. The prosecution’s focus on Divya’s alleged deliberate actions, coupled with her removal from her party leadership position, suggests a serious view of the potential consequences of her words. The court’s rejection of her bail plea, and the subsequent arrest, underscore the seriousness of the accusations and the need for a thorough investigation. Babu’s family, seeking justice for their loss, has welcomed the court’s decision, highlighting the emotional weight of this case and the desire for accountability for the tragic death of the ADM. The case remains under investigation, with potential ramifications for both the CPM and the political climate in Kerala.
Source: CPM leader in custody after Kerala court rejects bail plea in ADM death case