Himachal Pradesh Government Takes Action Against Senior Officials Amid Vimal Negi Case Controversy

In a dramatic move, the Himachal Pradesh government has suspended three senior officials amid allegations of misconduct in the Vimal Negi death case. This decision, made during a high-level meeting, has intensified political tensions, with the BJP threatening protests. The suspensions raise questions about the government's handling of the investigation, especially as the CBI has registered an FIR in the case. The political fallout is significant, with opposition leaders criticizing the government's actions as a panic response. As the situation unfolds, the implications for the state's administration remain uncertain.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 28, 2025, 12:34 IST

Government's Disciplinary Measures

SHIMLA: In a significant and unprecedented decision, the Himachal Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has enacted strict disciplinary measures against three high-ranking officials. These include Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Onkar Chand Sharma, Director General of Police (DGP) Atul Verma, and Shimla Superintendent of Police (SP) Sanjeev Gandhi, who have all been placed on leave due to allegations of misconduct and mismanagement related to the high-profile case of Vimal Negi's death.

This decision, reached during a crucial meeting at CM Sukhu’s residence, has escalated political tensions within the state, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) threatening to initiate widespread protests. The abrupt dismissal of these trusted officials raises critical questions: What prompted CM Sukhu to take such severe action against his own team, particularly as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has filed an FIR concerning Negi’s death, citing sections related to abetment of suicide?

According to sources, the Sukhu administration expressed dissatisfaction with Onkar Chand Sharma’s unilateral submission of a status report to the Himachal Pradesh High Court, which was done without the Advocate General’s review. Meanwhile, DGP Verma and SP Gandhi faced criticism for alleged misconduct and internal conflicts.

Investigation Concerns in Vimal Negi Case

Was the Vimal Negi death case probe mishandled?

The case surrounding the death of Vimal Negi, Chief Engineer of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited, has become a significant point of contention. The DGP had submitted a sealed affidavit to the high court opposing the investigation conducted by Shimla police, while ACS Sharma’s report reportedly circumvented necessary legal scrutiny. CM Sukhu is said to have interpreted these actions as acts of indiscipline, leading to the recent disciplinary actions.

Political Repercussions and BJP's Response

Political fallout: BJP steps up pressure

The BJP has taken this opportunity to criticize the Sukhu government, alleging administrative incompetence. With DGP Verma approaching retirement on May 31, the timing of these actions has raised suspicions, with opposition figures labeling it a 'panic move.'

In the wake of this reshuffle, senior IPS officer Ashok Tiwari has been appointed as the acting DGP, while Kamlesh Pant, Sandeep Vasant, and Rakhil Kahloon will oversee Sharma’s departments. This reshuffle appears to be CM Sukhu’s effort to regain control, but whether it will stabilize the administration or exacerbate the ongoing crisis remains uncertain, according to a BJP leader.