CBI Launches Investigation in Shimla
Shimla: A team from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrived in Shimla to investigate the suspicious death of Vimal Negi, who served as the Chief Engineer for the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation. The CBI has initiated a case citing charges of abetment to suicide and conspiracy, following an FIR lodged by local police.
CBI Team Arrives and Gathers Evidence
Vehicles provided by Solan SP’s office
A specialized team led by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) from the CBI reached Solan early in the morning before heading to Shimla. This team comprises an inspector, a stenographer, and a constable.
Their main goal is to collect investigative documents from the local CBI office, which is said to contain extensive records related to the case. Brajendra Prasad Singh has been designated as the lead investigator. Local authorities are aiding the CBI by providing transportation, including vehicles from the Solan SP’s office.
FIR Involves Former Officials
FIR names former top officials of power corporation
The CBI officially registered the case on May 26 at its Special Crime Branch in Delhi. The FIR is filed under Sections 108 and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, based on the earlier complaint from Shimla police.
Two former senior officials of the power corporation, ex-Director Deshraj and former Managing Director Harikesh Meena, have been implicated in the complaint. The investigation may uncover financial irregularities linked to the Pekhubela project.
Government's Reluctance to Accommodate CBI
Govt reluctant to offer CBI state guest facilities
The Himachal Pradesh government seems hesitant to provide the CBI team with accommodations at high-end state guesthouses such as Peterhoff or Circuit House (Willy Park), similar to arrangements made during the notorious Gudiya case. During that incident, the tourism corporation charged the government substantial amounts that were never reimbursed. If the CBI requests official lodging for their operations, only standard rest houses are likely to be offered, according to officials.
Additionally, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) may become involved if any financial misconduct is substantiated. The CBI is anticipated to interrogate Vimal Negi’s family, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Onkar Chand Sharma, DGP Atul Verma, Shimla SP Sanjay Gandhi, and members of the SIT as part of their investigation.
Conclusion
Sunil Chadha
