Shimla: A major rift has erupted within Himachal Pradesh Police as Shimla Superintendent of Police (SP) Sanjeev Gandhi accused the office of the Director General of Police (DGP) of links to the Chitta drug smuggling network. The serious allegations were made during a press conference on Saturday, intensifying the ongoing internal conflict between district police and state headquarters.
SP Sanjeev Gandhi Accuses DGP Office of Leaking CID Secrets
SP Gandhi claimed that confidential information from the CID was leaked by staff within the DGP’s office, compromising sensitive investigations. He revealed that in the case of the notorious drug smuggler Sanjay Bhuria, the Shimla police found that key intelligence was passed on from within police headquarters.
“Drug smuggling is a grave issue in Himachal. When the DGP’s own office is involved in leaking information, it is my responsibility to bring this to public attention,” said Gandhi. He also alleged that court permission was sought two months ago to further investigate these links.
Court Battle, Internal Rift Shake Himachal Police Hierarchy
The controversy intensified following an affidavit filed by DGP Dr. Atul Verma in the Himachal Pradesh High Court, reportedly against the SIT formed to probe the suspicious death of Power Corporation Chief Engineer Vimal Negi. SP Gandhi claims this was an attempt to obstruct justice.
In retaliation, the DGP has reportedly recommended disciplinary action against SP Gandhi and travelled to Delhi for consultations, potentially with the Chief Minister.
DGP’s Staff Allegedly Tied to Chitta Drug Gang Operations
SP Gandhi asserted that the confidential leak originated from a CID investigation and that evidence points to direct involvement of the DGP’s personal staff. He also alleged that the DGP had interfered with other ongoing probes, including that of Vinay Agarwal, accused of impersonating a top police official to extort money from industrialists.
He further claimed that several complaints have been received regarding the DGP’s conduct and hinted at future disclosures.
Political Fallout Intensifies: Legal Notices, Press Conferences, and Resignations
Gandhi firmly denied having any political ambitions or desire for promotions, stating, “If my honesty is questioned, I am ready to resign.” Meanwhile, BJP MLA Sudhir Sharma has filed a legal notice against the SP for linking his name to a High Court video leak and accusing him of involvement in alleged horse-trading of MLAs.
Sudhir hit back in a video statement, questioning SP Gandhi’s motives and demanding a CBI probe into Gandhi’s past postings.
The case of Vinay Agarwal accused of posing as a fake IG is now reopened after allegations that the DGP influenced officials to withdraw the case. SP Gandhi has informed both the Advocate General and the Additional Chief Secretary (Home) via official communication.
In parallel, the CID leak case has been handed over to the State CID, and a letter has been issued to SP Shimla for full cooperation and record submission.