Himachal Police Showdown: SP Sanjeev Gandhi Takes Stand Against DGP, Alleges Bias and Threatens to Resign
SP Sanjeev Gandhi and DGP Atul Verma
Shimla, May 24:
A major internal conflict has erupted within the Himachal Pradesh Police, as Shimla’s Superintendent of Police (SP) Sanjeev Gandhi has publicly accused Director General of Police (DGP) Sanjay Kundu of irresponsibility and bias. The controversy centers around the investigation into the mysterious death of Himachal Power Corporation Chief Engineer Vimal Negi, with SP Gandhi claiming that the affidavit submitted by the DGP to the High Court is misleading and one-sided.
Speaking to the media on Saturday, SP Gandhi announced his intention to file an appeal in the High Court to challenge the affidavit submitted by the DGP and to present what he called the factual narrative of the investigation.
Timeline of the Negi Case
Negi was reported missing on March 10. Shimla Police immediately launched a search and extended full cooperation to the family. CCTV footage and witness accounts placed him last at Ghumarwin bus stand. On March 15, the DGP formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by ADGP CID. Negi’s body was later recovered from the Govind Sagar Lake in Bilaspur on March 18, escalating public scrutiny and raising questions.
SP’s Independent SIT Uncovers Crucial Leads
Citing a lack of confidence in the official SIT’s approach, SP Gandhi constituted his own independent SIT comprising seasoned officers. According to him, the team conducted a detailed and impartial investigation over the past 40–45 days, uncovering vital evidence suggesting that Negi’s death may not have been accidental. Gandhi pointed to possible mental harassment and irregular behavior leading up to the incident.
High Court Orders CBI Probe; SP to Appeal
Following the High Court’s order to transfer the investigation to the CBI, SP Gandhi halted his SIT’s proceedings. However, he emphasized that the findings of his investigation are privileged documents that he intends to present in court. He also strongly criticized the DGP’s affidavit, accusing it of containing multiple inaccuracies, which he plans to expose through a formal appeal.
Explosive Allegations Against DGP’s Staff
SP Gandhi leveled serious accusations against a member of the DGP’s personal staff, claiming connections with a drug trafficking gang led by Sanjay Bhuria. He questioned how public trust could be maintained when those close to the state’s top cop are allegedly involved in such grave crimes.
Leaked Documents and Alleged Sabotage
He further alleged that a confidential document from his office was stolen and leaked during a CID investigation — an act he claimed was orchestrated by the DGP’s staff. An FIR has been registered, and the matter is under investigation.
Historical Tensions and Manipulated Reports
Gandhi also revealed that Shimla Police received a complaint stating that during his previous tenure as CID chief, the current DGP coerced a junior officer into producing a misleading report. Gandhi has formally raised this concern with the Advocate General and Additional Chief Secretary (Home).
He alleged that political pressure and interference from police headquarters have repeatedly attempted to derail independent investigations under his watch, raising serious concerns about the integrity of the policing system.
Defamation Case Against BJP MLA
In a separate but related move, SP Gandhi has filed a defamation suit against Dharamshala BJP MLA Sudhir Sharma for allegedly circulating video clips of a recent High Court proceeding. Gandhi also accused Sharma of being the mastermind behind alleged attempts to buy MLAs.
“I Won’t Tolerate Humiliation” — SP Gandhi
In an emotionally charged statement, SP Sanjeev Gandhi said,
“I’ve served in the police force for over 25 years with honesty and dedication. If my integrity is questioned, I would rather step down than suffer humiliation.”
He clarified that his intention is not to retain control over the investigation but to ensure that the truth comes to light in court. He reiterated his commitment to pursuing justice for Vimal Negi and confirmed that he will soon file an appeal in the High Court to counter the DGP’s affidavit and present the full picture.
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