Chief Engineer Vimal Negi Death Case: Director Deshraj Suspended, Departmental Inquiry Ordered

Shimla, March 19 – The mysterious death of Vimal Negi, the Chief Engineer and General Manager (GM) of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL), has shocked the state, leading to serious investigations and major administrative actions. In the wake of the tragedy, the state government has suspended Deshraj, the Director (Electrical) of the State Power Corporation, and ordered a departmental inquiry against him. This decision comes as public pressure mounts for a deeper probe into the circumstances surrounding Negi’s death.

Suspensions and Administrative Changes
In an effort to ensure a fair and impartial investigation, the state government took swift action. Along with the suspension of Deshraj, Managing Director (MD) of the Power Corporation, Harikesh Meena, was also removed from his position. To maintain the functioning of the corporation during this sensitive period, the government appointed Rakesh Prajapati, a 2012 batch IAS officer, as the new Managing Director. Meanwhile, Surinder Kumar, the Director (Civil), has been given the additional responsibility of Director (Electrical).

These administrative reshuffles aim to prevent any potential conflict of interest or interference in the ongoing investigation. The government has emphasized the importance of transparency and fairness in uncovering the truth behind the tragic incident.

Family’s Demand for CBI Inquiry
The death of Vimal Negi has sparked widespread outrage, particularly among his family and colleagues at HPPCL. The family is alleging foul play and insists that Negi’s death was not a simple accident or suicide. To voice their concerns, the family has been staging a sit-in protest outside the HPPCL office, holding the deceased’s body and demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) inquiry.

Negi’s relatives claim that the officials at the Power Corporation subjected him to undue stress, which they believe played a role in his mental distress and subsequent death. They accuse the government of failing to act in a timely and decisive manner, which may have contributed to the unfortunate outcome. Family members have pointed out that the environment within the corporation was hostile, with immoral pressures placed on Negi that might have driven him to take drastic steps.

Government Orders Investigation
In response to these grave concerns, the Himachal Pradesh government has appointed Omkar Sharma, the Additional Chief Secretary of the Home Department, to lead a thorough investigation into the matter. The government has directed Sharma to submit his report within 15 days. The investigation will include gathering statements from the family, HPPCL employees, and other relevant parties who may hold important information regarding the case.

The police have also been involved, as Vimal Negi’s wife has filed a formal complaint with the New Shimla Police Station. Based on her complaint, an FIR for abetment to suicide has been registered against unknown individuals, which could include HPPCL officials if any evidence of wrongdoing is found.

The Timeline of Events
The timeline of events leading to Negi’s tragic death began on March 10, when he mysteriously went missing from Shimla. The last known location of the chief engineer was traced to Bilaspur district. Following his disappearance, the administration and local police launched an extensive search operation. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until March 18 that his body was discovered floating in the waters of Govind Sagar Lake, sparking further questions regarding the cause of death.

Authorities have yet to provide a clear explanation as to how Negi ended up in the lake, with many speculating foul play or the possibility of suicide. The nature of his death remains under scrutiny, and the investigation aims to uncover whether any external factors, such as professional pressures or harassment, contributed to his untimely demise.

The Road Ahead
As the investigation progresses, the government is under increasing pressure to ensure that justice is served. The family’s demand for a CBI inquiry reflects the lack of confidence in the local investigation and the feeling that powerful interests may be trying to cover up the truth. In the coming weeks, more details are expected to emerge, and the fate of those allegedly involved in the case will be determined.

For now, the people of Himachal Pradesh, along with Negi’s grieving family and colleagues, await answers. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency in the workplace and the need for a thorough investigation into all deaths under suspicious circumstances.