Has ASI been illegally detained in Chief Engineer Vimal Negi case? Himachal High Court seeks CBI response

TNR News Network
Shimla:
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has sought a detailed response from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) over allegations of illegal detention of suspended ASI Himachal Pradesh Police Pankaj Sharma, a member of the committee probing the suspicious death of Chief Engineer Vimal Negi.
Justice Ajay Mohan Goel’s bench has directed the CBI to file its reply within two weeks. The next hearing is scheduled for August 20.

Detention under 24X7 surveillance challenged in HC

The petitioner, ASI Pankaj Sharma, approached the high court alleging that he had been unlawfully confined for over a month in a room at the Kaithu police guest house, under 24/7 surveillance. He is reportedly being monitored via CCTV and constantly guarded by security personnel, without formal arrest or legal procedure.

His counsel informed the high court that Pankaj Sharma is not allowed to even meet his family and that the restrictive conditions violated his fundamental rights under the Constitution. The petition also claimed that the detention had taken the form of unlawful house arrest without judicial sanction.

Shimla SP’s internal note raised concerns

The petition cited a letter written by Pankaj Sharma to Shimla Superintendent of Police Sanjeev Gandhi, in which he detailed the nature of his confinement and sought intervention.

SP Gandhi reportedly forwarded the letter to the DIG, acknowledging concerns regarding Pankaj Sharma’s continuous monitoring, curtailed freedom and what appears to be illegal custody. The representation demanded immediate action to restore Pankaj Sharma’s dignity and personal liberty.

Surveillance on orders of former DGP?

While the surveillance was done following instructions from former DGP Atul Verma, the petition argued that the so-called “protective custody” was a façade for illegal confinement. Official records showed that formal orders for his 24/7 security were issued on May 24, but by the end of the month, the arrangements had effectively turned into unauthorised detention.

Pankaj Sharma was allegedly prevented from visiting his official residence in Bharari, where his family lived, further compounding the alleged violation of his rights.