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Shimla, June 5
Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Secretary Sanjay Gupta has lodged a criminal case against former Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA), Shrikant Baldi, accusing him of making defamatory and false allegations through a press statement and its subsequent dissemination in the media.
The FIR, registered at Shimla East Police Station on May 30 under Sections 248, 351 and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), alleges that Baldi issued a written statement containing false, malicious and defamatory remarks intended to damage Gupta’s reputation and undermine public confidence in the office of the Chief Secretary.
According to the complaint, Gupta has objected to several allegations made by Baldi regarding decisions taken during his tenure as Chief Secretary.
The FIR states that Baldi accused Gupta of passing “illegal orders”, acting “without jurisdiction”, abusing official authority and favouring certain private interests. Gupta has maintained that all decisions taken by him were in accordance with law and after due examination of records in his official capacity.
The complainant further alleged that the statements were widely circulated through print, electronic and social media platforms, causing serious harm to his professional reputation and public image. Gupta contended that the allegations were not based on any material evidence and were made with the intention of tarnishing his credibility as a senior civil servant.
The FIR also claims that Baldi’s remarks sought to portray official decisions as corruptly motivated and attempted to create an impression of favouritism and abuse of authority. Gupta has requested legal action against Baldi and those involved in publishing and circulating the alleged defamatory content.
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Police have registered the case and initiated an investigation. The FIR notes that documentary evidence, including the disputed press statement, media reports, relevant government notifications and vigilance clearance records, has been submitted as part of the complaint.
The development comes amid ongoing legal and political controversy surrounding allegations and counter-allegations involving senior bureaucrats and former officials in Himachal Pradesh.
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