Vimal Negi Case: Family Raises Critical Questions Amid Shimla SP's Legal Challenge
Shimla SP's Revised Petition Sparks Controversy
Sunil Chadha
Shimla: Shimla's Superintendent of Police, Sanjeev Gandhi, has submitted a revised petition to the Himachal Pradesh High Court, contesting a previous ruling that mandated a CBI investigation into the suspicious death of Chief Engineer Vimal Negi. This development has prompted the family of the deceased officer from the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited to raise five pointed questions, casting doubt on the integrity and intentions behind the initial investigation.
The new appeal from Gandhi, who was placed on leave by the Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu administration following a public dispute with former DGP Atul Verma, is being made in his personal capacity after the court registry identified procedural errors in his earlier submission. However, the timing of this renewed legal action has heightened criticism from Negi's family and various rights organizations, who accuse the authorities of obstructing and manipulating the original police investigation.
Key Questions from Vimal Negi's Family
During a press conference, Bhagat Singh, the executive head of the Janjatiya Nyay Manch, outlined five critical questions that the family and their supporters are demanding answers to:
- What led to the SIT's inability to track Vimal Negi's whereabouts from March 10 to 13? Despite having access to surveillance and investigative tools, there is no clear record of his movements during the crucial days preceding his death.
- Why have Vimal Negi's mobile phone and laptop not been recovered? These essential devices could have provided significant insights, yet their absence remains unexplained.
- Why did Shimla SP Sanjeev Gandhi personally submit the medical report rather than a qualified medical expert? The family and the manch claim that Gandhi's personal interpretation of the medical findings raises concerns about credibility and potential conflicts of interest.
- What kind of pressure is the SP facing that leads him to oppose the CBI investigation personally? The family suspects political or administrative influence, especially since Gandhi's latest appeal is made in his personal capacity rather than as an official.
- Why is the SIT's initial report perceived as an attempt to cover up the case? The report has faced criticism for mishandling evidence and providing vague timelines, avoiding crucial questions instead of addressing them.
Legal Appeal Adds Complexity to the Case
Sanjeev Gandhi's revised 'letter patent appeal' seeks to challenge the high court's prior decision to transfer the investigation to the CBI. He has raised concerns about the SIT not receiving a fair hearing and is calling for an independent probe monitored by the court. Additionally, he claims to be a target of selective actions by central agencies. The original petition, submitted on May 30, contained procedural errors, including listing Gandhi as “Superintendent of Police” instead of using his personal name. These issues have now been rectified, and the plea is expected to be presented before a division bench soon.