Punjab Big Breaking: HC orders CBI probe into OSD corruption case, seeks report in 2 months

In a major setback to the Punjab government, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into alleged corruption involving the Chief Minister’s Office, specifically targeting the OSD and his close associates. The court has also directed the CBI to register an FIR and submit a detailed status report within two months. The decision comes after serious allegations surfaced, backed by findings from the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which pointed towards irregularities in key administrative processes. These reportedly include manipulation in tender allocations, issuance of arms licenses, transfer and posting of officials, and influence over policy decisions related to urban development and builder-linked projects. According to case details, the ED had earlier written multiple letters to the Punjab Police urging registration of an FIR based on evidence gathered during raids, including WhatsApp chats, documents, and digital records. However, despite repeated communication, no FIR was filed, prompting the matter to reach the High Court through a Public Interest Litigation (PIL). After hearing the case and reserving its order for weeks, the High Court has now handed over the investigation to the CBI, emphasizing the need for an independent and transparent probe. The move is being seen as the first major corruption-related case involving the current Punjab government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. With the CBI now set to initiate formal proceedings, including questioning of accused individuals, the development is expected to have significant political ramifications in the state. The case could also see further involvement from central agencies as the probe progresses.