Shimla, Jan 15,
The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has issued a preliminary enquiry report addressing the tragic suicide of Sanjay Kumar III, a driver at the Dharampur unit. The report, submitted by Vinod Kumar, Divisional Manager of HRTC Mandi, refutes allegations of harassment and confirms HRTC’s commitment to supporting the deceased employee’s family during this difficult time.
The enquiry as shared by HRTC in a media communique revealed that Sanjay Kumar had been granted leave generously during his tenure at the Dharampur unit, which began on June 3, 2024. Out of his service period, he availed 72 days of leave, accounting for around 30% of his tenure. This included 28 consecutive days of leave from December 7, 2024, to January 3, 2025. On January 7, 2025, he applied for another five days of leave, citing “domestic strife” but proceeded on leave without obtaining official approval.
The report also clarified that the employee received his salary in full from his joining date until December 2024, aligning with the payment schedule for all HRTC employees. Additionally, the enquiry highlighted that Sanjay Kumar had previously served in the Rampur unit, where he faced disciplinary action for consuming alcohol and negligent driving. Following his reinstatement, he was transferred to the Dharampur unit. His disciplinary history included prior actions for negligence and disobedience.
Rohan Chand Thakur (IAS), Managing Director of HRTC, stated that the preliminary findings revealed no evidence of harassment and dismissed the allegations as baseless. He urged the media to verify facts with HRTC management before publishing speculative reports and emphasized that a detailed investigation is underway.
Also read: HRTC union pushes for fair inquiry following HRTC driver’s tragic suicide
HRTC expressed its deepest condolences to the family of Sanjay Kumar and assured continued support. The corporation appealed to the media and public to refrain from spreading unverified claims that could further aggravate the family’s grief.
