Vimal Negi death case: Himachal Govt reinstates accused officer, Widow alleges bias

Shimla, July 24,
In a move that has triggered widespread criticism, the Himachal Pradesh government has reinstated two senior officials who are under investigation in the high-profile death case of Chief Engineer Vimal Negi. Desh Raj, former Director (Personnel) of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) and currently out on bail, has now been reposted as Chief Engineer in the Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board (HPSEB). Meanwhile, IAS officer Harikesh Meena, former Managing Director of HPPCL, also accused in the case, has been allowed to resume duties.

Both officers are facing an ongoing probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the suspicious death of Vimal Negi, which his family alleges was driven by harassment and corruption within HPPCL.

The decision to reinstate them has drawn a sharp response from Vimal Negi’s widow, Kiran Negi, who said the government’s actions reflect a “clear bias” and undermine the quest for justice.

“By reinstating the very people who were suspended following public outrage and who are under serious investigation, the government has shown where its loyalties lie,” said Kiran Negi. “This is not just insensitive, it’s a clear attempt to shield the guilty.”

She recalled how both officers were only suspended after protests and public demonstrations, including one where the family refused to cremate Vimal’s body until action was taken. “Now, those same officers are being rewarded with fresh postings. What does that say about the seriousness of the investigation?”

Kiran Negi also highlighted that when the matter of Desh Raj’s bail was taken to the Supreme Court, the state government did not appoint any legal counsel to oppose it. “Even that silence speaks volumes,” she said.

Adding to the concerns, the then Superintendent of Police (SP) Shimla—whose initial inquiry into Vimal Negi’s death was found flawed by the High Court—has also been reinstated. The case was subsequently handed over to the CBI due to lapses in the initial probe.

“This is not justice. This is selective support to the accused,” Kiran Negi said, questioning the credibility of the state’s intentions.

The reinstatement of the accused has raised broader concerns about the government’s commitment to justice in sensitive cases. Public voices and legal experts alike have begun questioning whether such administrative decisions are setting dangerous precedents by allowing those facing serious allegations to return to positions of authority even before the investigation concludes.

With the CBI probe still ongoing, the controversy around the government’s move is expected to intensify in the days to come.

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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.