Chandigarh, March 21: Punjab cabinet minister Laljit Singh Bhullar resigned from the government following his alleged link to the suicide of a senior warehousing official, triggering a major political storm in the state.
The resignation came after Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann sought his exit and ordered an independent investigation to ensure a fair probe into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The case revolves around Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, a district manager with the Punjab State Warehousing Corporation, who died after allegedly consuming poison. Before his death, a video surfaced in which he appeared to hold the minister responsible, claiming he took the extreme step under pressure.
According to reports, the controversy is linked to a tender allocation dispute in Patti, where Bhullar allegedly tried to influence the awarding process in favour of a close associate. Randhawa is said to have resisted the alleged pressure and proceeded with what he considered a fair process.
Further allegations suggest that the official was called to the minister’s residence, where he was reportedly mistreated and coerced into recording a statement, claims that have intensified the gravity of the case.
The incident quickly drew sharp reactions from opposition leaders, including Bikram Singh Majithia and Sukhpal Singh Khaira, who demanded immediate legal action and a thorough investigation.
In response, the state government moved swiftly, with the Chief Minister reiterating a strict stance against corruption and misconduct, stating that accountability would be ensured regardless of position.
Officials confirmed that a high-level probe has been initiated to examine all aspects of the case, including the tender process and the events leading up to the officer’s death.
While the minister has not publicly responded, sources close to him have reportedly denied the accusations, describing them as politically motivated.
The development has intensified political tensions in Punjab, especially with upcoming local body elections, as the opposition continues to press for transparency and justice.
Authorities are expected to gather evidence, review the viral video, and record statements from concerned individuals as part of the ongoing investigation.
The case has also raised broader concerns about administrative pressure, governance practices, and the safety of officials handling sensitive assignments.
As the probe progresses, all eyes remain on the findings, which could have significant political and legal implications in the days ahead.
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