Vimal Negi death case: HP High Court extends IAS Harikesh Meena’s interim protection by 4 weeks

The Himachal Pradesh High Court on Monday extended the interim protection from arrest granted to IAS officer Harikesh Meena for another four weeks in the abetment to suicide case of HPPCL Chief Engineer Vimal Negi.

In order passed by Justice Virender Singh extented interim protection to Meena. Earlier counsel for the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) filed a status report in a sealed cover. The agency, which took over the investigation from the Special Investigation Team (SIT), has not yet sought cancellation of the relief granted earlier to Meena or HPPCL Director (Electrical) Desh Raj.

During the proceedings, CBI counsel Janesh Mahajan submitted that the agency is still analysing material collected from various state agencies. The CBI sought more time to complete its review before presenting a final stand on Meena’s bail plea.

Meena, who appeared in person before the court, apologised for not being present during the morning session. His counsel was also present. The court has now granted both sides four weeks’ time to argue the bail matter and extended interim protection to Meena until the next hearing.

It is pertinent to mention that since taking over the probe, the CBI has not moved any application to seek police custody of the accused officials.

Vimal Negi went missing from the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) office in New Shimla on March 10. His body was recovered from Bhakra Dam on March 18. Allegations of harassment by senior officials led to the registration of an abetment to suicide case, prompting the High Court to transfer the probe to the CBI.

The next hearing is expected to be crucial as the agency may finally clarify its position on the allegations against Meena.