A political controversy has erupted in Mohali ahead of the municipal corporation elections, with senior Congress leader and former Punjab health minister Balbir Singh Sidhu accusing a police officer of misusing official machinery to distribute liquor and influence voters. Sidhu has demanded the registration of an FIR against the officer, Balwinder Singh Jhansal, alleging violations of the Model Code of Conduct.
Congress Alleges Police Complicity
Sidhu stated that a formal complaint has been submitted to the State Election Commission, accusing Jhansal of supporting Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-backed candidates as well as Independent candidates. He claimed that specific vehicles — bearing registration numbers PB 65 BJ 9908, PB 12 M 2031, and T0426CH 8403A — were being used for the distribution of liquor. Video evidence, he said, has been shared with the poll panel. Sidhu has called for an independent probe, seizure of the vehicles, and strict action against all those involved.
Independent Candidate Denies Charges
Independent candidate Paramjit Singh Kahlon, who has been named in the allegations, has denied any wrongdoing. He termed the accusations as “politically motivated” and an attempt to tarnish his image during the election campaign.
Police Response and Arrest
Meanwhile, the police have arrested the driver of the SUV, identified as Harminder Singh. He has been booked under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). According to police, five cartons of Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) and a police uniform were recovered from the vehicle. SP Dilpreet Singh clarified that the accused is a private individual who allegedly misused the uniform. The Station House Officer (SHO) concerned was unaware of the incident and, prima facie, is not involved. The role of the uniform is currently under verification, he added.
The incident has added fuel to the political slugfest in Mohali, with parties trading accusations ahead of the municipal polls.
