Unprecedented Detention of Himachal Pradesh Police by Haryana Police During Investigation

Unprecedented Detention of Himachal Pradesh Police by Haryana Police During Investigation

In a startling revelation of an unprecedented police procedural development, Himachal Pradesh police found themselves detained by Haryana police while investigating allegations related to helicopter services provided to MLAs during the Rajya Sabha elections. Acting on court orders, Himachal Pradesh police traveled to Gurugram to search the office of the accused helicopter service provider. However, upon arrival, the Shimla police personnel were detained by Haryana police for over 10 hours.

The Shimla police are deeply involved in probing the allegations of MLA bribery during the Rajya Sabha elections in Himachal Pradesh. As part of their investigation, they went to Gurugram to search the office of a helicopter company allegedly involved in providing services to the MLAs. The detainment occurred when the Shimla police team, armed with a search warrant, arrived in Gurugram. Haryana police took them to a local station, where they were held until late at night.

The situation was resolved only after discussions between the Shimla SP and the Haryana DGP, allowing the Shimla police team to continue their investigation. This incident highlights the complexity and tension between inter-state police operations in India.

The controversy traces back to February 27, during the Rajya Sabha elections in Himachal Pradesh, when six Congress MLAs and three independents engaged in cross-voting. Following the voting, these MLAs stayed in hotels in Chandigarh and Uttarakhand for several days, with helicopter services arranged for their transportation. To uncover the source and payment methods for these services, Shimla police visited the helicopter company’s office in Gurugram.

Upon their arrival, Haryana police detained the Shimla officers, leading to a standoff that lasted until the intervention of senior officials. The police personnel were eventually released, but the incident underscores the friction and coordination challenges between state police forces.

Reports suggest that a tour and travel company involved in this operation received Rs. 20 lakh, raising questions about the source of this money and the payment process. Shimla’s Balu Ganj police station is currently investigating these financial transactions, with the aviation company showing reluctance in providing records despite multiple requests.

The investigation has broader political implications, as cross-voting during the elections led to the defeat of Congress candidate Abhishek Manu Singhvi. Subsequently, Congress leaders Sanjay Awasthi and Bhuvneshwar Gaur filed a case in Shimla’s Balu Ganj police station, alleging financial transactions aimed at toppling the government. The case also implicates Tarun Bhandari, a close associate of former Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar, who has been summoned by Shimla police. Additionally, BJP MLA Ashish Sharma (formerly an independent) and the father of former MLA Chaitanya Sharma are also under scrutiny.

The cross-voting and subsequent political fallout have caused significant turbulence in Himachal Pradesh’s political landscape. The investigation continues to unfold, with Shimla police determined to trace the origins of the alleged financial transactions and the involvement of various political figures.

The incident has brought to light the challenges of inter-state cooperation in criminal investigations, especially when political interests are at stake. As the Shimla police continue their probe, the case serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in maintaining law and order across state boundaries.

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