Justice Delayed, Questions Unanswered: Jagat Negi Slams CBI Over Vimal Negi Case

In a sharp critique of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), Himachal Pradesh’s Revenue Minister has voiced serious concerns over the agency’s slow progress in probing the death of Vimal Negi, an official with the Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL).

Negi’s body was recovered from Gobindsagar Lake in Bilaspur on March 18. His family has alleged that workplace harassment by senior officials led to his death. The case, initially handled by the state police, was transferred to the CBI by the Himachal Pradesh High Court on May 23.

“What’s the CBI doing? How many months have gone by? Is it rocket science to find out how someone was pushed to commit suicide?” the minister asked, expressing frustration over the lack of clarity and progress.

He defended the state’s initial response, stating that the government had acted swiftly by suspending and transferring the officials named in the FIR. “We formed a Special Investigation Team and even set up a high-powered committee. But the BJP kept pushing for a CBI probe, and now it’s up to them to deliver results,” he said.

On the controversial revocation of the suspension of the accused officials, the minister clarified that legal procedures must be followed. “There’s a time limit for suspensions. If no charges are proven within that period, reinstatement is mandatory. Otherwise, they can challenge it in court,” he explained.

He added that both officials have been reassigned to lower posts outside HPPCL, emphasizing that disciplinary action has been taken despite the ongoing investigation.

Tensions in Thunag: Minister Faces Protest, Flags National Insult and Relief Bias

What began as a protest in Thunag, a quiet town in Himachal’s Seraj constituency, has now escalated into a political storm. Cabinet Minister Jagat Singh Negi’s convoy was halted by BJP workers and local residents, who waved black flags and reportedly threw shoes at his vehicle. The incident led to FIRs against 58 individuals, sparking outrage from the BJP, which accused the state government of silencing dissent.

But Minister Negi sees it differently. “This wasn’t just a protest—it was an insult to the national flag displayed on my vehicle,” he said, calling for sedition charges. “Throwing shoes and black flags isn’t about me. It’s about disrespecting the symbol of our nation.”

College Relocation Sparks Local Anger

At the heart of the unrest is the government’s decision to temporarily shift the Thunag Horticulture College to Sundernagar. Negi clarified that the move was made in response to concerns from students and parents, who feared for their safety following repeated natural disasters in the region.

“Children were scared, and parents were worried. We had to act,” he explained. He also pointed out that Thunag lacks proper infrastructure, with many buildings constructed illegally—even over drainage channels. “There’s no suitable location for a college here, and basic facilities like hostels are missing.”

Relief Distribution Under Fire

Negi didn’t hold back in accusing BJP leaders of bias in distributing disaster relief. “Cash and supplies are being handed out selectively to BJP supporters. Some people are receiving ten pressure cookers each, while ration is being stockpiled. This isn’t relief—it’s favoritism,” he said, demanding transparency and a public list of beneficiaries.

He also criticized Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur for not responding to an invitation to discuss the issue. “The government cannot risk children’s lives because of pressure from BJP contractors. And let’s be honest—BJP has never respected the national flag. Jairam Thakur didn’t even condemn the incident.”

A Divided State, A Call for Accountability

As political tempers flare, the people of Himachal are left grappling with both natural disasters and deepening political divides. The government claims to be working without bias, deploying over 60 machines for relief in Seraj alone. But the opposition continues to question its intent.

In the midst of it all, one thing is clear: the need for transparency, respect, and unity has never been greater.