Shimla SP Sanjeev Gandhi rejoins duty, after a Month-long leave amidst controversy

Shimla, June 24,

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shimla, Sanjeev Gandhi, resumed duty on Tuesday after a month-long medical leave, marking a significant development in the ongoing administrative reshuffle triggered by the Vimal Negi death case controversy.

The Himachal Pradesh government had earlier issued a notification dated May 27, 2025, ordering that Gaurav Singh, IPS (HP:2013), Superintendent of Police, Solan, would hold additional charge of SP Shimla during Gandhi’s leave period. The order was issued by Chief Secretary Prabodh Saxena citing “public interest.”

Gandhi’s return comes in the backdrop of a dramatic face-off within the top echelons of the police and administration. He had publicly accused the then Director General of Police (DGP) Atul Verma and other senior officials, including the Chief Secretary, of interfering with the investigation into the suspicious death of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation’s Chief Engineer Vimal Negi.

Also read:HC admits SP Sanjeev Gandhi’s plea on adverse remarks, but upholds CBI probe in Vimal Negi case

Gandhi alleged that the DGP’s office attempted to derail the probe and leaked confidential information. In retaliation, then DGP Verma had written to the Home Department recommending immediate disciplinary action against Gandhi, citing violations of the All India Services Conduct Rules and the Himachal Pradesh Police Act. Verma termed Gandhi’s actions “misconduct and insubordination.”

The State government subsequently sent both Gandhi and DGP Verma on leave and removed Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Onkar Chand Sharma from his post, amid mounting pressure and judicial scrutiny following the High Court’s decision to hand over the Negi case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Verma has since retired, while Sharma has rejoined service.

Gandhi’s return is expected to stir further debate in police and administrative circles, as the CBI continues its probe into the high-profile case, and the fallout from the internal rift in the government machinery is still unfolding.

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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.

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Himachalscape bureau

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.