Punjab Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar resigned on Saturday following directions from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, as a controversy surrounding the death of a government official in Amritsar intensified. The resignation comes at a time when the state government is facing mounting pressure over serious allegations linked to the case.
The issue centers around Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, a district manager with the Punjab Warehousing Corporation, who was also handling additional responsibilities in Patti, Bhullar’s constituency. Randhawa reportedly died after consuming Celphos poison. Before his death, he is said to have recorded a video in which he made grave accusations against the minister.
In the alleged video, Randhawa claimed he was being harassed and pressured to manipulate a tender process in favor of an individual close to the minister. He stated that he refused to comply and instead awarded the contract to a legitimate bidder. The video also reportedly includes claims of a ₹10 lakh bribe demand, physical assault at the minister’s residence, and attempts to record a compromising video.
As the allegations gained traction, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann ordered a formal inquiry into the circumstances leading to Randhawa’s death. A government spokesperson confirmed that the investigation will examine all aspects of the case, including any possible involvement of the minister. The Chief Minister has reiterated that the government will not tolerate any irregularities or misconduct.
The political fallout was immediate, with opposition leaders stepping up their attack on the ruling party. Bikram Singh Majithia of the Shiromani Akali Dal demanded strict action, including the registration of an FIR against Bhullar, preservation of the deceased’s phone as evidence, and a CBI probe. The opposition also questioned the credibility of the Aam Aadmi Party’s governance model under Arvind Kejriwal.
The incident has raised broader concerns about transparency and accountability in Punjab’s public institutions, particularly those connected to agriculture and procurement systems. The warehousing corporation plays a crucial role in handling grain storage, making the case even more sensitive for the state’s administrative framework.
Bhullar’s resignation is being seen as a step toward ensuring a fair investigation, but the situation remains fluid. The government has not yet announced a replacement for the Transport portfolio. As the inquiry progresses, its findings are expected to have significant political and administrative implications for the Mann-led government.
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In summary, Laljit Singh Bhullar has stepped down amid serious allegations linked to the death of a government official, the Punjab government has ordered a high-level probe, and the opposition continues to demand stricter action, making this one of the most closely watched political developments in the state right now.