Shimla June 6
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has alleged serious irregularities, including document tampering and criminal conspiracy, in its charge sheet filed in connection with the death of Himachal Pradesh Power Corporation Limited (HPPCL) Chief Engineer Vimal Negi.
According to the charge sheet, officials involved in the Pekhubela Solar Power Project allegedly issued a completion certificate despite substantial work remaining unfinished. The CBI claims the certificate was backdated to falsely present the project as completed, creating a mismatch between the actual progress on the ground and official records.
The agency further alleged that senior officials bypassed established procedures to facilitate an undue benefit of nearly ₹13 crore to the contractor. Investigators stated that officers who raised objections regarding payments and project completion were excluded from the decision-making process, while project oversight responsibilities were reassigned.
The charge sheet also claims that pressure was exerted on officials advocating compliance with rules and regulations. According to the CBI, efforts were made to secure favorable comments and proposals from subordinate officers to support decisions benefiting the contractor.
The agency believes these actions were not merely administrative decisions but part of a planned criminal conspiracy aimed at ensuring favorable outcomes for the contractor. Evidence collected from project documents, meeting records, and statements of officials allegedly indicates attempts to manipulate official records and bypass regulations.
The CBI further stated that the growing pressure and disputes surrounding the project had placed Vimal Negi under significant mental stress. His role and the circumstances leading up to his death remain a key focus of the investigation.
The charge sheet concludes that evidence of abuse of official position, document manipulation, and criminal conspiracy has emerged during the probe. The case will now proceed through judicial examination before the court.
