Himachal IAS Officer Granted Interim Bail in Chief Engineer's Death Case

The Himachal Pradesh High Court has granted interim bail to IAS officer Harikesh Meena, who is accused in the death case of Chief Engineer Vimal Negi. The court's decision follows extensive hearings and arguments from both the defense and the CBI. The defense claims Meena is falsely implicated, while the CBI argues that his interrogation is crucial for the investigation. The case has raised significant concerns regarding accountability and the pressures faced by public officials. Read on for more details about this developing story.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 24, 2025, 14:22 IST

Interim Bail Granted to IAS Officer

Shimla:
On December 24, 2025, the Himachal Pradesh High Court approved interim bail for IAS officer Harikesh Meena, who is implicated in the death of Vimal Negi, the Chief Engineer of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation. The court had previously reserved its decision on Meena's bail request on December 3 after considering arguments from all parties involved.

Justice Virender Singh, in his ruling, acknowledged the arguments presented during the hearings. Initially, the state government represented the case, but later, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) was included as a party.

After reviewing the case diary (Volume I) submitted by the CBI, the court heard from all stakeholders. Meena's senior counsel argued that the officer was wrongfully accused without substantial evidence. They highlighted that the deceased, Vimal Negi, had a history of depression and was receiving medical treatment. The defense also challenged the CBI's status report, labeling it as incorrect and misleading.

In opposition, the CBI presented its documentation to the court, requesting the rejection of the interim bail application. The agency contended that custodial interrogation of Meena was essential for a thorough investigation and warned that granting bail at this juncture could obstruct the inquiry.

Additionally, the counsel for Negi's wife informed the court that Vimal Negi faced undue pressure regarding the timelines and funding for the Pekhuwala solar project in Una. They claimed that he was subjected to mental harassment and persistent stress, alleging significant corruption in the project. The counsel further asserted that Meena had already benefited from bail and was moving freely, arguing that the claims regarding the deceased's mental health should not exempt senior officials from responsibility.