MANDI/KINNAUR: The death of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Chief Engineer Vimal Negi has sparked a political and emotional storm as his grieving family has levelled serious allegations against senior officials and also questioned the government’s stance.
At the same time, a war of words has erupted between the Congress and BJP leaders, each accusing the other of politicising a sensitive matter.
Vimal Negi’s wife Kiran Negi and younger brother Surendra Negi have accused three senior officials of mentally harassing the officer, which they claim drove him to take the extreme step. They also alleged that the current state investigation lacked transparency and seriousness.
“If the government had acted responsibly, Director Deshraj would not have been granted bail. No action has been taken against former MD Harikesh Meena or another IAS officer Shivam Pratap Singh,” said Kiran Negi.
While the police have registered an FIR against Director Deshraj and his anticipatory bail was initially rejected by the high court, he has since received interim relief from the Supreme Court.
Former MD and IAS officer Harikesh Meena was called for questioning by the Shimla police on Monday (April 7, 2025).
Family disappointed with Sukhu govt’s response
Surendra Negi said the family would soon approach the Himachal Pradesh High Court to demand a CBI inquiry. “We want an independent and impartial probe. This is not just about our brother, but the system failing an honest officer,” he said.
The family also expressed disappointment over the lack of support from senior Congress leaders.
“Only those leaders who are related to us personally came to offer condolences. No senior Congress leader from Kinnaur attended the tribute event or the candle march held in Vimal Negi’s memory,” said Surendra Negi.
In response, Pradesh Congress media panelist Dr Surya Borras defended the government’s actions and criticised the BJP for what he termed as “political exploitation of grief”. “While Kinnaur was lighting candles for justice, BJP leaders were trying to score political points,” he said.
Congress accuses BJP of politicising matter
Dr Borras questioned former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur’s recent visit to Katgaon in Kinnaur. “The same leader who rarely stepped out of his helicopter while in office is now arriving with large convoys,” he said. He also deemed BJP MLA Balbir Verma’s presence at the candle march as inappropriate and politically driven.
According to Borras, the Congress government was proactive from the outset. “Cabinet Minister Jagat Singh Negi contacted the family immediately and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu has expressed support for justice. We remain committed to ensuring a fair investigation.”
The BJP, on the other hand, has accused the ruling party of handling the matter with insensitivity.
Munish Sood
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