Punjab Official Implicated in Cattle Vaccine Case Receives Promotion
In a controversial move, the Punjab department of animal husbandry, dairy development, and fisheries has promoted Dr Harveen Kaur to the position of joint director (animal husbandry) on April 2. This decision comes despite her being named in a First Information Report (FIR) filed in March 2025, which links her to the alleged supply of approximately 30,000 doses of damaged haemorrhagic septicaemia vaccine for cattle.
Background of the Vaccine Scandal
The case revolves around vaccines intended to combat galghotu, a disease affecting cattle. The vaccines were reportedly damaged in a fire that occurred in April 2021. Following a petition by the Krantikari Kisan Union, the Punjab and Haryana High Court directed an inquiry, leading to the registration of the FIR at Ferozepur Sadar police station on March 18, 2025.
Other Officials Involved: Alongside Dr Harveen Kaur, the FIR names Dr Jaswant Singh, a veterinary officer posted at the veterinary hospital in Sande Hasham, and Hoshiar Singh, a veterinary inspector at the veterinary hospital in Ferozepur. None of the accused have been arrested, as the investigation is still pending.
Legal Proceedings and Departmental Action
The high court had ordered the director of the Bureau of Investigation (BOI), Punjab Police, to conduct an inquiry and instructed the animal husbandry department to take action against those found responsible. After a preliminary inquiry, the FIR was filed, and Ferozepur Sadar police have since submitted a challan under sections related to mischief, forgery, and criminal conspiracy to the court of the additional chief judicial magistrate in Ferozepur.
The matter is scheduled for a hearing on April 30, adding to the scrutiny of the department's handling of the case.
Lack of Response from Authorities
Repeated attempts to contact Paramdeep Singh Walia, the director of animal husbandry, and principal secretary Rahul Bhandari for comments on the promotion and the ongoing case have not elicited any response. This silence has fueled concerns about transparency and accountability within the department.
The promotion of Dr Harveen Kaur amidst such serious allegations raises significant questions about governance and ethical standards in Punjab's animal husbandry sector, highlighting the need for thorough investigations and clear communication from officials.
