CBI Questions Former HPPCL Director in Vimal Negi Death Case

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Saturday questioned Desh Raj, former Director (Electrical) of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL), in connection with the mysterious death of former Chief Engineer Vimal Negi.

Negi had gone missing from his Shimla office on March 10, and his body was recovered from the Gobind Sagar Lake in Bilaspur district on March 18.

According to sources, Desh Raj was questioned for several hours on issues related to Negi’s death, HPPCL’s work culture, and the allegations made by Negi’s family. Both Desh Raj and the corporation’s former Managing Director had been accused by the family of abetting Negi’s suicide. The family alleged that the officials had subjected Negi to sustained mental harassment and pressure in the months leading up to his death.

The Himachal Pradesh High Court had earlier directed the CBI to take over the investigation, which was initially being handled by the state police.