Shimla: The administrative probe into the mysterious death of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation’s Chief Engineer Vimal Negi has revealed disturbing details of mental harassment at the workplace, shaking the foundations of the state’s premier energy body.
Though the inquiry found no direct link between Chief Engineer Vimal Negi’s death and the controversial Pekhuwala Solar Project in Una, the 66-page sealed report submitted to the state government contains startling revelations that could have far-reaching implications.
The confidential report, prepared by Additional Chief Secretary Omkar Sharma and handed over to the Chief Minister’s Office, is based on testimonies from 25 individuals, including Chief Engineer Vimal Negi’s family members and senior corporation officials.
Those questioned include former Managing Director Harikesh Meena, former Director (Personnel & Finance) Shivam Pratap Singh (both IAS officers), and suspended Director Deshraj.
Mental torture and toxic work culture
Sources familiar with the contents of the report disclosed that Chief Engineer Vimal Negi faced intense psychological pressure in the months leading up to his death.
He was allegedly called to office early in the morning and allowed to leave late in the evening. He was allegedly often made to stand outside the offices of senior officials for hours, and was reportedly assigned gruelling 12-hour shifts without respite.
It has also emerged that he was, on multiple occasions, summoned back to the office while on his way home.
Colleagues interviewed during the probe confirmed the hostile work environment, with one former director’s conduct coming under special scrutiny.
While the report stops short of assigning criminal culpability, it does point to possible administrative and ethical violations, which could lead to further action.
Went missing mysteriously on March 10
Chief Engineer Negi, who had recently taken charge in the Shimla office following his tenure at the Shongtong Project, went missing under mysterious circumstances on March 10.
His body was recovered from the Gobind Sagar Lake in Bilaspur on March 18, triggering an outcry and allegations of foul play from his family. On the very day his body was found, the family publicly accused Meena and Deshraj of mentally harassing Negi, urging authorities to investigate the matter thoroughly.
Sealed report to be presented to Chief Minister
The sealed report was opened in the presence of top officials at the Chief Minister’s Office. The administration is expected to brief Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who is away to Gujarat to attend a Congress convention, once he returns to Shimla.
The findings could pave the way for internal disciplinary action or even criminal investigations, depending on the government’s next move.
Sunil Chadha
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