Punjab Opposition Leader Demands Corruption Act Against Bhullar, Holds CM Mann Accountable
In a significant development, Partap Singh Bajwa, the Leader of the Opposition in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, has intensified pressure on the state government by demanding stringent legal action against Laljit Singh Bhullar. Bajwa asserts that Bhullar must face charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act for allegedly misusing his official position to coerce a public servant into illegal activities.
Congress Leader Joins Protest, Calls for Justice
Bajwa recently joined Congress workers in a protest, standing in firm solidarity with the family of Dr. Gagandeep Singh Randhawa. He emphasized that this is not merely a fight for one family but a larger battle for justice, accountability, and the protection of honest officers in Punjab. "The facts clearly establish cognizable offences, and the law must take its due course without delay or dilution," Bajwa stated, highlighting serious allegations of illegal confinement and extortion against Dr. Randhawa.
Demand for Comprehensive Investigation
Bajwa has called for a thorough investigation into multiple officials, arguing that accountability cannot be selective. He specifically named:
- The Managing Director of Warehousing
- The Deputy Commissioner of Amritsar
- The Chief Secretary
- Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann
He stressed that all should be investigated and booked for dereliction of duty. Bajwa pointed out that CM Mann also holds the Cooperation portfolio, under which the Warehousing Department functions, making him directly responsible for oversight and accountability in this matter.
Legal Provisions and Evidence Collection
Bajwa referenced Section 239 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (formerly Section 202 IPC), alleging a deliberate omission by authorities to report offences of attempted extortion to the police. He raised concerns over the investigation, demanding:
- Seizure of mobile phones from Laljit Singh Bhullar and his alleged accomplices
- Collection of mobile tower dump data to identify individuals at the alleged assault location
- Immediate securing of CCTV footage from Bhullar’s premises to preserve crucial evidence
Bajwa cautioned that the FIR must not become a tool to exonerate the accused through legal loopholes but should be developed into a watertight case to ensure justice and deter future abuse of power.
Congress Party's Unwavering Resolve
Asserting the Congress Party's commitment, Bajwa affirmed, "We will not allow this matter to be brushed under the carpet. We will continue this struggle with unwavering resolve until justice is delivered. Justice must be complete, not selective." This stance underscores the political tension in Punjab, with the opposition pushing for transparency and accountability in governance.
