CBI Investigates Corruption Allegations In Punjab
Investigation into allegations adds pressure to Punjab's political landscape.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to register a criminal case and investigate corruption allegations linked to the office of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. The court also directed the CBI to submit a status report within two months and ordered the Punjab government and police to cooperate with the central agency.
The case stems from three communications sent by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) to Punjab DGP Gaurav Yadav between July and August, seeking action over alleged corruption. The allegations involve Rajbir Singh Ghuman, an Officer on Special Duty to Mann, and other individuals. The ED's communications reportedly referred to alleged interference in government transfers and postings, Change of Land Use matters, tenders and other official processes.
According to the ED allegations cited before the court, private individual Nitin Gohal allegedly acted as an intermediary between people seeking government-related favours and Ghuman. The allegations further concern access to confidential government documents, facilitation of arms licences and other benefits. These allegations remain subject to investigation and have not been established by a court.
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The High Court's order followed a public interest litigation filed by advocate Nikhil Saraf after the Punjab Police allegedly did not register a case based on the ED's communications. The court said a fair and transparent investigation was required and expressed dissatisfaction with the manner in which the state police had handled the matter. The CBI has now been tasked with examining the allegations and reporting its findings to the court.
The development has triggered political reactions in Punjab, with opposition parties demanding accountability and an independent investigation. Congress and BJP leaders have questioned the functioning of the state administration, while the Aam Aadmi Party has accused the Centre of using central agencies to target the Punjab government. The competing claims are likely to keep the issue in focus as the CBI begins its investigation.
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