SC Notice on Bail Plea of Accused in Vimal Negi Death Case; Govt's Silence Raises Eyebrows
Shimla: The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Himachal Pradesh government on the bail plea of Director (Electrical) Deshraj, one of the prime accused in the death of HPPCL’s General Manager, Chief Engineer Vimal Negi, whose body was recovered from the Bhakra Dam on March 18.
Despite the gravity of the case, the state government’s legal response appears lackadaisical, with no senior advocate representing it to contest Deshraj’s bail plea.
This glaring absence has fueled speculation that the government is shielding the accused rather than ensuring justice for Negi’s family.
Lethargy or a Cover-Up?
The lack of judicial seriousness displayed by the state has not gone unnoticed. It raises critical questions—why is the government soft-pedaling on a case where corruption and possible foul play are evident?
With allegations swirling around HPPCL’s 32 MW Solar Pekhubella project in Una and the 420 MW Shongtong-Karchham power project in Kinnaur, concerns of deep-rooted corruption are surfacing.
Even as the probe, led by Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue) Onkar Chand Sharma, questioned MD Herikesh Meena, Deshraj, and Shivam Pratap Singh, the delay in tangible action reeks of systemic rot.
SIT probing the case has not arrested Des Raj and it has reason to justify as his bail application is pending in the Supreme Court now.
Justice Delayed, Justice Denied?
The silence of the state is being countered by growing public outrage. Vimal Negi’s family, who had placed faith in the Chief Minister’s assurances for justice, is now running out of patience.
They are actively considering approaching the High Court, dissatisfied with the state’s handling of the investigation. For 15 days, Negi’s wife, Kiran Negi, and his elder brother, Surendra Negi, waited for answers—but none came.
Their demand for a CBI inquiry is not just a plea but a necessity in a case where political and bureaucratic shields seem impenetrable.
Kinnaur Rises: Candle March on April 5
The people of Kinnaur are refusing to remain silent spectators. A candle march, led by Negi’s family, is set to take place on April 5 at the district headquarters, demanding a fair and transparent investigation.
The march is not just a show of solidarity but a clarion call for accountability, untainted by political affiliations.
From Choura to Soomra, residents are being urged to participate and make their voices heard.
A Movement, Not Just a Protest
“This is not about politics; it’s about truth, integrity, and justice,” stated Kiran Negi, urging people to stand together.
“We want to ensure that no other honest officer faces the same fate as Vimal Negi.”
The fight is not merely for personal justice but a systemic cleanse to prevent corruption from consuming those who serve with honesty and dedication.
Will the Govt Wake Up?
With pressure mounting from the All India Power Engineers Association and the HPSEBL Union, the state can no longer afford to drag its feet.
The coming days will test whether the government chooses justice over vested interests or allows another case of institutional injustice to be buried under bureaucratic corruption.
#JusticeForVimalNegi #KinnaurFightsBack #CBIForNegiCase #StopShieldingCorrupt #FairTrialNow #PeopleDemandJustice
