Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar resigned from the cabinet on Saturday amid a growing controversy surrounding the alleged suicide of a government official. The resignation comes as the state government faces mounting pressure to ensure transparency and accountability in the case, which has sparked political and public debate across Punjab.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann confirmed that he had asked Bhullar to step down in order to facilitate an impartial investigation into the incident. The case involves the alleged suicide of a warehouse corporation district manager in Amritsar, raising serious concerns about administrative conduct and possible misuse of power.

The controversy intensified after a video surfaced on social media, purportedly showing the official, identified as Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, claiming he had consumed a poisonous substance and naming the minister. The video quickly went viral, drawing attention to the circumstances leading up to the incident and prompting calls for a thorough probe.

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Opposition leaders, including Bikram Singh Majithia, have levelled serious allegations, claiming that Randhawa died after consuming Celphos and was allegedly pressured into accepting a bribe of ₹10 lakh. Majithia further alleged that the official had resisted awarding a tender to individuals linked to the minister and faced harassment, including being summoned and allegedly assaulted.

Bhullar, however, has strongly denied all allegations, calling them “absolutely baseless and false.” In a public statement, he said he supports a fair investigation and has voluntarily stepped down to allow authorities to conduct an unbiased inquiry. He also reiterated his faith in the legal process and maintained that the truth would emerge through due course of investigation.

The incident has triggered a wider political row in Punjab, with opposition parties demanding strict action and accountability, while the ruling government has emphasised its commitment to transparency. Authorities are expected to initiate a detailed probe into the circumstances surrounding the official’s death, including examining the viral video, alleged coercion, and any potential links to administrative or political pressure.

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