Shimla:

BJP spokesperson Randhir Sharma stated during a press conference in Mandi that in a major breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the mysterious death of Vimal Negi, Chief Engineer of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Ltd (HPPCL), the Himachal Pradesh High Court has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to take over the case. The court’s decision comes in the wake of mounting public pressure, political outcry, and serious concerns about the impartiality of the state-led probe.

“The development has been welcomed across political lines, particularly by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which had been vocally demanding a CBI probe” he added.

Sharma said that the order marks a significant step toward justice in a case that has raised troubling questions about transparency, corruption, and political interference.

“Vimal Negi, a crucial figure in the state’s power infrastructure, went missing on March 10, and an FIR was registered the same day,” Sharma stated. “Tragically, his body was recovered on March 18, under highly suspicious circumstances.”

Sharma revealed that a post-mortem was conducted at AIIMS Bilaspur, and a Special Investigation Team (SIT) was formed shortly after. However, the SIT’s investigation was mired in controversy, marred by internal rifts among police officers, and tainted by allegations of political shielding.

“There were visible cracks within the investigation team. Senior police officials were even seen arguing during court proceedings,” Sharma said, adding that such incidents have further eroded public confidence in the state’s ability to conduct an unbiased investigation.

“The case has taken a darker turn with emerging reports suggesting that Negi may have been under pressure due to his knowledge of alleged corruption in high-profile energy projects, including the Karchham Wangtoo and Pekhubela Solar power projects. Sources indicate that Negi was possibly coerced or threatened by his superiors”said Sharma.

“Adding another layer to the mystery is the reported disappearance of a pen drive found in Negi’s pocket, allegedly containing sensitive information. An Assistant Sub-Inspector was suspended for mishandling the pen drive, but the content remains missing, and the circumstances around its disappearance are unclear” he added.

“The silence from the Chief Minister and most cabinet ministers is disturbing,” Sharma said. “Only one minister has issued a guarded statement, while the rest have chosen to remain silent.

On this occasion, he was accompanied by BJP leader Ajay Rana from Mandi and District Mandi BJP chief Nihal Chand Sharma.