Shimla, March 19,
Employees of the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) have written to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, demanding a fair investigation into the tragic death of Er. Vimal Negi, General Manager, HPPCL. In their letter, the employees expressed deep concern over the circumstances surrounding his demise, alleging undue pressure and workplace mismanagement, as also claimed by his wife.
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Negi, a well-known figure in the state’s power sector, had left his home for the office on March 10 but did not return. He was last seen in Bilaspur district, with CCTV footage capturing his movements. His sudden disappearance had prompted multiple appeals from his family to Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Revenue Minister Jagat Singh Negi, and the police for urgent intervention. The Chief Minister had assured all possible efforts to locate him, and the issue was even raised in the state assembly.
His family has alleged that Negi faced mental harassment at his workplace, attributing his disappearance to a toxic work environment within HPPCL. They have filed complaints with higher officials, accusing the administration of subjecting employees to undue stress and pressure. These claims have ignited a broader debate on employee welfare and workplace conditions in state-run corporations.
Raising the matter in the assembly, Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur urged the Chief Minister to constitute a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the circumstances surrounding Negi’s disappearance.
The letter from HPPCL employees underscores their growing unrest, stating that many have faced similar pressures in the past two years. They have called for an independent and transparent inquiry into the case and demanded immediate administrative changes within HPPCL’s management, citing media reports that have highlighted concerns over the corporation’s work culture.
As a mark of protest and solidarity, the employees have decided to pause their work until a thorough investigation is initiated and corrective measures are implemented. “We believe that such steps are crucial to safeguarding the well-being of employees and maintaining a fair working environment,” the letter states.
As the investigation unfolds, the state government has pledged full support to authorities in uncovering the truth behind Negi’s disappearance and death. The incident has sent shockwaves across bureaucratic and power sector circles, highlighting the urgent need for a review of workplace conditions and mental health support in government-run corporations.
