A senior official’s death has triggered a political storm in Punjab, leading to a minister’s resignation and a government-ordered probe into the allegations surrounding the case.
Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar speaks to the media in this file image, amid controversy linked to an official’s suicide. (Photo: ANI)
Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar resigned on Saturday after a political storm over the death of a senior state official, who is alleged to have named the minister before taking his own life.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann accepted the resignation and ordered an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the death of Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, a District Manager with the Punjab Warehousing Corporation.
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The move comes amid growing pressure on the government, with opposition parties demanding action and raising serious questions about the handling of the case.
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Officials said the Chief Secretary has been asked to conduct a detailed inquiry, including any possible role of the minister. The Chief Minister said the government would not tolerate any negligence in the matter.
Randhawa, who was posted in Amritsar and also handling additional responsibilities, allegedly died by suicide after consuming poison. A purported video statement linked to him has surfaced, in which the minister’s name is mentioned.
The allegations have not been independently verified.
Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia alleged that Randhawa was under pressure in connection with a tender and was forced to admit to taking a bribe. He claimed the official was assaulted and threatened, and called for an independent probe, including a CBI investigation.
“A young life lost in Amritsar amid grave allegations of torture linked to AAP minister Laljit Singh Bhullar.”
“Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, District Manager, Warehouse Corporation Amritsar, died by suicide after consuming Celphos. Resident of Ranjit Avenue, was handling Amritsar duties with additional charge of Patti.”
“Alleged he was forced to admit accepting a Rs 10 lakh bribe. Claimed pressure to award a tender to the minister’s aide, said he chose a legitimate bidder instead. Alleged he was called to the minister’s place, assaulted, and attempts were made to record a video. Raises serious questions on Laljit Singh Bhullar and the conduct of those in power. Accountability questions now extend to Chief Minister @BhagwantMann and @AamAadmiParty leadership, including @ArvindKejriwal,” Majithia said.
Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira also demanded a criminal case against Bhullar, alleging harassment and misuse of power.
Both leaders referred to a video purportedly recorded by Randhawa before his death.
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