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Himachal HC Upholds CBI Probe in Engineer’s Death and Limits Criticism of SP Gandhi

Preserving CBI control, striking unsubstantiated critiques of SP Gandhi’s conduct, mandating responses by July 14, the court shaped the next phase of the probe.

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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe will continue into the death of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited chief engineer-cum-general manager Vimal Negi as the double bench of the Himachal Pradesh high court on Thursday refused to interfere with the decision to transfer the investigation to the CBI, terming that part of the plea as non-maintainable. (Shutterstock/ Representation image)

Overview

  • The division bench declined to modify its May 23 order, ensuring the Central Bureau of Investigation retains jurisdiction over Vimal Negi’s death inquiry.
  • Justices Sandhawalia and Sharma granted partial relief to SP Sanjeev Gandhi by deeming adverse observations about his and his SIT’s professional integrity unsupportable.
  • Notices were issued to the Union of India, CBI, state government officials and Negi’s family with a July 14 deadline to contest the challenged remarks.
  • The CBI registered a fresh FIR at its Delhi headquarters and deployed a four-member team in Shimla to begin recording witness statements, including those of Negi’s relatives.
  • Himachal Pradesh’s government ordered SP Gandhi, Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Sharma and DGP Atul Verma to proceed on leave as the investigation continues.