Punjab govt to challenge HC order handing transfer-posting corruption probe to CBI
PTC Web Desk: The Punjab Government has decided to approach the Supreme Court against the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s order directing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe allegations of corruption linked to government transfers, postings, tenders and other administrative matters in the state.
Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced the decision on Monday after a meeting of the state Cabinet in Chandigarh. He said the government would challenge the High Court’s direction and oppose the CBI investigation.
Cheema pointed out that Punjab had withdrawn its general consent for CBI investigations during the last Congress government and said the state would rely on that position while presenting its case before the Supreme Court.
Also Read | Major setback for Punjab government: High Court orders CBI probe into corruption charges flagged by ED, CM Mann's aide under scanner
High Court orders CBI probe
The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday ordered the CBI to take over the investigation into allegations concerning alleged financial dealings in government transfers and postings, along with other suspected irregularities involving the functioning of the state administration.
A Bench headed by Chief Justice Ashwani Kumar Mishra, along with Justice Rohit Kapoor, observed that the material placed before the court warranted an impartial and transparent investigation.
The court expressed dissatisfaction with the action taken by the Punjab Police so far and directed the CBI to register a case and commence its investigation.
The agency has been asked to submit its investigation report within two months. The matter will next be heard on December 7.
The court also directed the Punjab Government and Punjab Police to extend all necessary assistance and cooperation to the CBI during the investigation.
Petition raised allegations against officials
The High Court order came on a petition filed by advocate Nikhil Saraf, who raised allegations of corruption involving persons holding government positions and senior officials.
The petition also raised questions concerning individuals allegedly linked to the Chief Minister’s Office.
The allegations gained significance after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) reportedly wrote to Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav on multiple occasions, seeking registration of an FIR over suspected corruption and alleged interference in government functioning.
ED letters triggered dispute
According to the allegations placed before the court, the ED had raised concerns about possible irregularities in areas, including transfers and postings, government tenders, policy-related decisions, changes in land use and other administrative approvals.
The agency had reportedly sought police action after its investigation brought certain individuals under scrutiny.
The ED's communications to the Punjab Police became a key part of the proceedings after no FIR was registered on the basis of the agency's letters. Instead, the Punjab Police sought a legal opinion from its Bureau of Investigation before proceeding further.
Names of several individuals mentioned
The ED investigation reportedly referred to individuals, including Nitin Goyal, real estate businessman Ajay Sehgal and Suresh Kumar Bajaj.
The name of Rajbir Singh Ghuman, described as an OSD linked to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, also figured in the material discussed in connection with the case.
The ED has alleged that certain individuals were acting as intermediaries for people seeking government benefits and attempting to influence administrative decisions, including transfers and postings.
Allegations range from postings to govt tenders
The ED has reportedly alleged that material recovered during its investigation, including digital communications, contained references to government postings, transfers and appointments. The agency also raised allegations concerning government tenders, licences and other official approvals.
According to the material presented before the court, the alleged activities could attract provisions relating to corruption, criminal conspiracy, cheating and forgery.
- PTC NEWS
