Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has removed Cabinet Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar from his post following the death of a Punjab Warehousing Corporation officer, a case that has triggered significant political backlash in the state.
The officer, Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, who was serving as a District Manager in Amritsar, died after consuming a poisonous substance. Before his death, he recorded a video in which he alleged that Bhullar had subjected him to pressure, harassment, and mental torture.
Taking serious note of the allegations, the Chief Minister directed Chief Secretary KAP Sinha to conduct a detailed inquiry into the circumstances surrounding Randhawa’s death. Mann stated that the loss of a government अधिकारी under alleged political pressure was unacceptable and warranted strict action.
The incident has led to sharp reactions from opposition parties. Leaders have accused Bhullar, who was handling the jail and transport portfolios, of pressuring and allegedly assaulting the officer in connection with a tender-related matter. Amritsar MP Gurjeet Singh Aujla called for the registration of an FIR against the minister, arguing that his removal alone was not sufficient. He also urged authorities to ensure that the victim’s family is not subjected to any form of pressure.
Other opposition figures, including Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Majithia and Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar, have demanded an independent investigation into the case and Bhullar’s arrest. Jakhar further alleged that the minister had demanded a bribe of ₹10 lakh from the officer and questioned the ruling party’s claims of running a clean and transparent government.
The case continues to draw attention as authorities proceed with the investigation, with calls growing for accountability and a transparent probe into the allegations.
