CPI(M) leader PP Divya was taken into custody on Tuesday by Kerala police following the rejection of her anticipatory bail plea by the Thalassery Principal District and Sessions Court. Divya is accused of abetting the suicide of former Kannur Additional District Magistrate (ADM) Naveen Babu.
The court, presided over by Principal District and Sessions Judge KT Nissar Ahammed, dismissed Divya’s anticipatory bail plea, paving the way for her arrest, as reported by PTI. The detailed order of the court is still awaited.
Police said, "CPI(M) leader Divya taken into custody after court rejects her anticipatory bail plea in ADM death case."
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The incident dates back to October 14, when Divya, the former president of the Kannur district panchayat, allegedly attended Babu’s farewell function uninvited and publicly criticised him for delaying the approval of a petrol pump in Chengalai. Divya reportedly hinted at knowing the reasons behind Babu’s last-minute approval of the pump permit, which came just two days before his transfer.
The following day, Naveen Babu was found dead in his quarters in Kannur, leading to suspicions of abetment to suicide. In response to the incident, a case was registered against Divya under relevant sections for abetment of suicide.
Seeking protection from arrest, Divya had approached the Thalassery Sessions Court on October 19 for anticipatory bail, but the court’s rejection of her plea led to her being taken into custody on Tuesday.
On the other hand, Babu's family welcomed the decision of the court in the matter.
Meanwhile, police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Babu’s death and Divya’s alleged involvement.