Shimla: In a dramatic turn of events, a list of 172 police personnel selected for the prestigious DGP Disc Award in Himachal Pradesh was withdrawn just hours after being announced, leading to confusion and disappointment within the force.
The list was released on Saturday by Dr. Atul Verma (1991 batch IPS from HP cadre), who was due to retire as Director General of Police (DGP). However, it was later withdrawn by acting DGP Ashok Tiwari, citing procedural impropriety as Verma had already been sent on leave by the state government in connection with the Vimal Negi death case.
Mr Verma Released Awards List Despite Being Relieved
On March 29, the Himachal Pradesh government placed Dr. Verma on leave, replacing him with Ashok Tiwari (1993 batch IPS Officer) as the acting DGP. Despite this, Verma issued the DGP Disc Award list on June 1, the day of his retirement.
Within two hours, Tiwari, exercising the authority of the DGP, nullified the awards list, stating that the announcement was made without valid jurisdiction. The situation has raised concerns about internal coordination and protocol adherence in the top ranks of the police department.
No Full Guard of Honour or Farewell Ceremony for Verma
Further highlighting the internal discord, Verma’s request for a full ceremonial guard of honour was denied. Traditionally held at Police Line Bharari, this ceremony was replaced with a scaled-down version in the courtyard of the police headquarters. The planned farewell party was also reportedly cancelled.
Other Key Changes in Police Leadership
- Sanjeev Ranjan Ojha, Director General of Prisons and Correctional Services, also retired.
- He was given a formal farewell at Kaithu Jail, where his contributions were appreciated by senior officials.
- Abhishek Trivedi (1996 batch IPS) has now taken over as ADGP, Prisons, and has also been assigned the Law and Order portfolio for the state.
Award List Contained Names from Across the State
The withdrawn award list included names of officers and personnel from all ranges and battalions, including–
- SPs, ASPs, DSPs, Inspectors, SIs, and Constables
- Women officers like ASP Babita Rana, Inspector Garima Surya, SI Kalpana, and Constable Puja Dhiman
- Officers from Himachal Pradesh Vigilance, SDRF, CID, and District Police units
- Personnel from ministerial and support staff, including drivers, clerks, and fourth-category employees
Despite the withdrawal, the names were widely circulated and congratulatory messages had already begun appearing on social media platforms and internal police channels before the cancellation was made public.
Backdrop: Vimal Negi Death Case & Verma’s Exit
Dr. Verma’s premature departure was linked to procedural lapses in the Vimal Negi custodial death case, in which he allegedly filed an affidavit in the High Court without government clearance. This misstep led to political and administrative backlash, culminating in his sudden removal just days before retirement.
What’s Next?
While no statement has been issued yet about whether a revised award list will be published by the current DGP, the incident has sparked debate within the police ranks over the timing and transparency of service recognitions. Many awardees are now left in limbo, uncertain if their names will be retained or dropped altogether.
