Shimla: SIT Drops Bombshell in Vimal Negi Suicide Case, Flip-Flops on Custody of Accused ex MD Harikesh Meena
SHIMLA: In a dramatic twist, the Himachal Pradesh SIT investigating the mysterious death of HPPCL General Manager Vimal Negi has requested the High Court to reject anticipatory bail of Meena.
Interestingly There was no talk or mention of the corruption angle in HPPCL Pekhubela and Shong-Tong projects, which were main reason why Negi was under stress under pressure.
In the High Court today, the SIT made a surprising caveat on its plea seeking police custody of accused MD Harikesh Meena seeking bail—just as the DSP leading the probe was changed.
The court has now listed the matter for arguments on May 14.
What's Brewing Behind the Scenes?
The SIT's fresh status report suggests that key aspects of the investigation are still wide open. Only saving grace is that SIT has sought cancellation of bail of Meena.
SIT says a deep-dive is underway into the call records, psychological profiling, and potential workplace harassment linked to Negi’s alleged disappearance and mysterious death.
Investigators are chasing electronic trails, and a full-blown analysis of CCTV footage, call records (CDR/IPDR), and witness statements is in motion.
Some Revelations So Far:
Negi’s Mental Health Ignored? Medical records reveal he had been suffering from anxiety and depression since 2020, prescribed strong medications like Escitalopram and Etizolam.
A large number of such tablets were found in his room after death, SIT claims.
Work Pressure or Harassment? Statements from multiple HPPCL officials indicate Negi worked over 10 hours a day, often till midnight, under extreme pressure.
Allegations point fingers at Harikesh Meena, Desh Raj, and Shivam Pratap Singh for mentally harassing him.
Call Data Bombshell: Between Jan and March 10, Desh Raj had 463 calls with Negi, Shivam Pratap 53, while Meena had 7.
Interestingly Meena had claimed in his pleas that he didn't know Vimal Negi.
The SIT is probing if this level of contact indicates psychological pressure or conspiracy.
Missing Mobile Still a Mystery: The deceased’s phone, potentially carrying crucial evidence, hasn’t been found despite divers combing the Sutlej river.
CCTV & Document Trail: Footage from highways and offices has been seized. SIT has also taken possession of official files, meeting minutes, project reports, and leave records to probe for signs of coercion, irregularities, or pressure tactics, the respondents submitted in court.
Medical Leave Scrutiny: Negi had applied for medical rest multiple times, with doctors flagging serious signs of depression and hypertension.
Desh Raj Gets Interim Relief: While Harikesh Meena faces intensified probe, the High Court has ordered no coercive action against co-accused Desh Raj for now—though he is cooperating with interrogation.
The court has fixed the case for next hearing on May 14.