Shimla SP Opposes CBI Investigation in Vimal Negi Death Case

High Court Considers CBI Investigation

SHIMLA: The Himachal Pradesh High Court is currently evaluating the possibility of transferring the investigation into Vimal Negi's death to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). However, Shimla's Superintendent of Police, Sanjeev Gandhi, has voiced his opposition to this move.

During his appearance at the high court, Gandhi expressed concerns that shifting the case to the CBI could negatively impact the morale of the state police and disrupt the thorough investigation already underway by a special investigation team (SIT).

Police Conducting Thorough Investigation

Gandhi assured the court that the SIT is diligently examining all facets of the case. He clarified that the initial delay in police action stemmed from jurisdictional complications, as the incident involving the Chief Engineer of HP Power Corporation Ltd (HPPCL) occurred in Bilaspur, outside Shimla's jurisdiction. The post-mortem was also conducted there, and the SIT was only established after an FIR was lodged in New Shimla.

He further noted that the SIT had recently retrieved a pen drive from a member of the original investigative team, which has been sent for forensic analysis.

Gandhi urged the court to have faith in the police's integrity and warned that transferring the case to the CBI could demoralize officers dedicated to uncovering the truth.

High Court Deliberates on CBI Transfer

Justice Ajay Mohan Goel, who is presiding over the case, remarked that internal conflicts between the Director General of Police (DGP) and the Shimla SP might be causing delays in achieving justice.

“Justice must not only be done, but must also be seen to be done,” the judge stated, emphasizing the need for transparency in such a sensitive matter.

After reviewing reports from the DGP, Shimla SP, and Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Omkar Sharma, the high court has reserved its decision regarding the potential transfer of the investigation to the CBI, with a ruling anticipated soon.

Family Calls for CBI Investigation Amid Conflicting Reports

Advocate General Anup Rattan urged the court to disregard the report from the ACS (Home) as conclusive, explaining that it only addressed allegations of harassment by senior officials at HP Power Corporation Ltd. He reaffirmed the state's commitment to a comprehensive investigation and requested additional time for the SIT to finalize its work.

Meanwhile, Vimal Negi's family continues to demand a CBI investigation, claiming that the current inquiry has not been conducted impartially.

Senior counsel RK Bawa highlighted the police's inability to locate Desraj, despite an FIR against him, arguing that government negligence allowed the accused to obtain bail from the Supreme Court. The family believes that only a CBI-led investigation can guarantee accountability and justice.