CBI Intensifies Punjab Corruption Probe; Former Deputy Speaker Grilled for Hours
The CBI intensifies its probe into Punjab administrative posting irregularities, questioning Bir Devender for over seven hours.
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has ramped up its investigation into a high-profile Punjab corruption case involving alleged irregularities in administrative postings and transfers. The central agency is now summoning key figures for questioning after digital evidence surfaced, pointing toward a wider network of influence-peddling within the state's administration.
Marathon Questioning of Bir Devender
As part of the intensifying probe, Bir Devender appeared before CBI investigators for a grueling session. The interrogation, which commenced at 11:30 AM, lasted more than seven hours. Upon exiting the facility, Devender briefed reporters, revealing that he was faced with approximately 60 to 70 questions regarding the allegations.
"Regarding the allegations that were levelled, we cooperated fully with the CBI. We addressed every single question they posed to us, taking our time and providing thorough responses over the course of approximately 10 hours today. We have complete faith that justice will be served and that the central agency will conduct a fair investigation," Devinder stated.
While he expressed confidence in the judicial framework and the impartiality of the investigation, Devender noted that the agency would likely summon him again, for which a formal notice will be issued.
The Digital Trail and the ED Connection
The CBI's current trajectory was heavily influenced by previous actions taken by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). Raids targeting Nitin Goyal reportedly uncovered critical chat logs that implicated several individuals in the irregularities. These digital footprints provided the catalyst for the CBI to summon those mentioned in the communications to join the investigation.
The Core of the Allegations
The investigation centers on the alleged manipulation of administrative postings and transfers in Punjab. This probe was initiated following specific directives from the Punjab and Haryana High Court. Currently, a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against six individuals, though the agency is continuing to summon others as new names surface during the inquiry.
Focus Shifts to the Chief Minister's Office
The probe has reached the upper echelons of the state government. Rajveer Ghumman, the Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, is one of the six individuals named in the FIR.
Ghumman has already undergone one round of questioning, during which investigators grilled him with 40 queries. He is scheduled to reappear before the CBI on Monday for further intensive interrogation as the agency seeks to uncover the depth of the alleged corruption.
The CBI is currently conducting its operations from House No. 50, Sector 2, as it continues to piece together the evidence surrounding the administrative scandals in the state.