Shimla, Mar 30 (PTI) A Palampur-based businessman, who had last year accused Himachal Pradesh DGP Sanjay Kundu of putting pressure on him and his family, has urged the Election Commission to remove him and Kangra police chief Shalini Agnihotri to ensure free and fair elections.

Acting on Nishant Sharma's request, the Election Commission of India has asked the Himachal Pradesh's Chief Electoral Officer to look into the matter. The CEO has sent the complaint to the state's Home Department secretary.

Also Read | Indian Navy Rescue Operation: Nine Pirates Being Brought to India To Face Legal Action Day After Rescuing Iranian Vessel ‘Al-Kambar’.

In his earlier complaint against the state police chief, Sharma had alleged threat to him, his family and property. He had also questioned the role of the Director General of Police who had allegedly made calls to him, asking him to come to Shimla.

Taking suo moto cognisance his complaint, the High Court had on November 10, 2023 asked for a status report in the case and subsequently on January 2 ordered to shift the DGP. He was shifted to the Ayush department as principal secretary.

Also Read | Easter 2024: President Droupadi Murmu Extends Greetings to People on Easter Eve.

However, the Supreme Court on January 12 set aside the High Court order and reinstated Kundu as the state police chief.

Addressing mediapersons at Palampur, Sharma claimed free and fair elections cannot be held if Kundu remains in charge of the state's police force. He said that in his complaint to the Election Commission he has quoted court's remarks from his case.

Earlier, in his complaint, Palampur-based businessman Nishant Sharma has alleged threat to him, his family and property. He had also questioned the role of the Director General of Police who had allegedly made calls to him, asking him to come to Shimla.

(The above story is verified and authored by Press Trust of India (PTI) staff. PTI, India’s premier news agency, employs more than 400 journalists and 500 stringers to cover almost every district and small town in India.. The views appearing in the above post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY)