forum-seeks-wider-probe-into-vimal-negi-s-death

The Himalaya Tribal People Rights Forum has urged Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta to order a comprehensive state-level investigation into the mysterious death of former Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) chief engineer Vimal Negi. 

 

The forum has also demanded the registration of an FIR over alleged corruption in the 32 MW Pekhubella Solar Power Project, which is allegedly connected to Negi’s death.

 

In a letter submitted to the Governor, the forum claimed that the solar project received approval on February 8, 2023, within a single day and without key documents such as a Detailed Project Report (DPR) and Project Feasibility Report (PFR).

 

The forum further alleged that the project was cleared without the approval of the Board and that mandatory funding safeguards and other official procedures were ignored. It also claimed that project costs were inflated, illegal extensions were granted, and payments were cleared despite alleged  irregularities.

 

According to the forum, these alleged irregularities are linked to Vimal Negi's death. It claimed that Negi faced pressure to approve disputed payments and was gathering evidence before he went missing. His body was later recovered on March 10, 2025. The forum also alleged that evidence was tampered with after his pen drive was formatted and accused state agencies of not fully cooperating in the investigation.

 

The forum said although the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) is probing certain aspects of the case following directions from the High Court, a broader state-level inquiry is needed. It has also sought a fresh FIR to investigate alleged administrative lapses, financial irregularities, and possible offences under the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.

 

Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur said the CBI investigation was progressing and hoped it would be completed without delay. He noted that Vimal Negi's family has been demanding a speedy probe and said Negi's wife met the Governor to press for swift action. Thakur said those found guilty should be brought to justice at the earliest.
 

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