Investigation Reveals Disturbing Workplace Culture in Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation
Investigation into Chief Engineer's Death Uncovers Alarming Allegations
Sunil Chadha
Shimla: An investigation initiated by the Himachal Pradesh government into the tragic death of Vimal Negi, Chief Engineer of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL), has surfaced serious claims of workplace harassment, intimidation, and undue pressure to grant illegal favors to contractors. The inquiry, led by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Onkar Sharma, has revealed troubling insights into the internal dynamics of the state-run power corporation.
The findings were disclosed in a report submitted to the Himachal Pradesh High Court, just before the case was handed over to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) as per the court's instructions.
Inquiry Highlights Mental Strain and Harassment
The 66-page report, which includes testimonies from 20 individuals, such as family members of Vimal Negi and HPPCL staff, indicates that the late Chief Engineer faced ongoing psychological stress in the days leading up to his unexplained death.
Onkar Sharma's investigation paints a picture of a toxic workplace where employees, including Negi, were subjected to excessive hours, verbal mistreatment, and punitive measures for minor infractions. Vimal Negi, who disappeared on March 10, was discovered deceased eight days later in Gobind Sagar Lake, Bilaspur. His family protested outside HPPCL's Shimla office on March 19, alleging foul play and demanding a CBI investigation.
Claims of Coercion for Questionable Payments and Data Manipulation
The inquiry reveals specific instances where Vimal Negi was allegedly pressured by senior officials, including former Managing Director Harikesh Meena and Director (Electrical) Deshraj, to approve dubious financial transactions.
In the Pekhubella solar power project, evidence suggests that Vimal Negi was under significant pressure to authorize a 10% contractor payment by issuing a completion certificate, despite having reservations. Another senior engineer claimed that Negi was instructed to inflate revenue projections for legislative purposes. Engineers reported being told to downplay delays in the contractor's schedule to mask inefficiencies.
A Deputy General Manager testified that Deshraj explicitly warned staff, including Negi, stating, 'Aap problem mein aa jaoge' (you’ll land in trouble) if they did not comply.
Kiran Negi Alleges Coercion Against Her Late Husband
Kiran Negi, the widow of the late Chief Engineer, informed investigators that her husband was compelled to issue a chargesheet against a colleague despite his strong objections, which caused him emotional distress. She also claimed he was forced to authorize payments contrary to standard procedures, exacerbating his frustration.
The report further accuses Deshraj of belittling staff and using inappropriate language, while Negi, reportedly unwell, faced unreasonable work demands. Testimonies indicate he was made to stand with files for extended periods and received show-cause notices for taking brief casual leave.
Accused Officials Deny Wrongdoing
Both Harikesh Meena and Deshraj, named in the report, have denied the allegations. The CBI, which filed an FIR on May 26 under sections of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, is now officially investigating the matter.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who ordered the inquiry following the family's protest, confirmed receipt of the report. However, he noted that attempts to confront the accused officials were reportedly declined by the ACS, who stated that such actions fell within the realm of a formal departmental inquiry rather than a fact-finding mission.
CM Sukhu also highlighted that the ACS submitted the report directly to the high court, bypassing the state's legal counsel, emphasizing the sensitivity and urgency of the situation.