PATHANAMTHITTA: We have faced many core issues together. We worked unitedly as a family. He was someone who worked tirelessly day and night. Divya S Iyer, former collector of Pathanamthitta, could not control her tears and was unable to complete her words while talking about ADM Naveen Babu. She got very emotional while talking about Naveen. The sight of Divya holding Minister K Rajan's hand and crying brought tears to many.

‘Naveen while serving as Ranni Tehsildar was very sincere and dedicated in serving the people during floods and during the Sabarimala protests. He was known for his commitment to the people. A smile was always there on his face. The last time I saw him was when he came to my chamber when transferred to Kasargod as part of promotion,' said Divya.

The body was taken to his home in Malayalapuzha after public darshan at Pathanamthitta Collectorate. People are flocking to pay homage to Naveen. Ministers K Rajan, Veena George, MPs, MLAs, other people's representatives and colleagues are there. Many stood close to Naveen’s body in tears. He will be laid to rest in the premises of his house in Malayalapuzha at 2 pm. Naveen entered government service as an LD clerk at the age of 19. The unfortunate incident happened when he had only seven months left to retire after completing 30 years of service.