Shimla, April 6
More than fifteen days after the mysterious death of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) General Manager Vimal Negi, and with the investigation appearing to be not reaching towards any tangible end, the calls for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe are being heard louder than before. Despite the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and a high-powered committee by the Himachal Pradesh government, no arrests have been made so far.
The delay has drawn sharp criticism from the opposition BJP, which has been consistently targeting Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, accusing him of going soft on the accused. The matter took a dramatic turn on Saturday when Negi’s family, including his widow, staged a protest in Shimla, demanding a CBI investigation and alleging that the state government is shielding the accused.
The family expressed their frustration, pointing out that the 15-day deadline set by the Congress-led government to show progress in the case had expired with no concrete outcome. Their concerns have been further compounded by the fact that one of the accused, HPPCL Director (Electrical) Desh Raj, has secured interim relief from the Supreme Court, raising questions.
Chief Minister Sukhu, while laying a foundation stone in Shimla today, defended his government’s actions and accused the BJP of politicizing a tragedy. “If the Enforcement Directorate can conduct raids in my assembly constituency without state permission, what stops the BJP from pushing for a CBI probe?” he asked.
Sukhu reiterated that his government was open to any form of investigation but criticized the opposition for allegedly exploiting the issue for political mileage. He also launched a counterattack on former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur, blaming the previous BJP-led government for the current financial crisis in the state. “They left behind unpaid arrears despite receiving over ₹1 lakh crore. The economic mess is their legacy,” Sukhu asserted.
As political tempers flare, the demand for a CBI inquiry is gaining momentum. The BJP continues to push for a transparent and impartial probe, making the Negi case a major flashpoint in Himachal Pradesh’s current political discourse.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
References:
Monte cassino italy https://lillixger714454.bloggip.com/