Amit Shah Calls for Written Request from Punjab MPs for CBI Inquiry into Officer's Suicide
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New Delhi, March 23 (NationPress) On Monday, Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the Lok Sabha regarding the suicide of a Punjab government officer, stating that while the case is primarily under the jurisdiction of the Punjab state government, the Central Government is open to a transfer of the investigation to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) if Punjab's Members of Parliament submit a formal written request.
During the Lok Sabha session, HM Shah emphasized that the matter lies within the Punjab government's domain, yet assured readiness to facilitate a CBI investigation pending a written demand from the state's MPs.
“This matter concerns the state of Punjab. I urge all Members of Parliament from Punjab to formally request that the CBI take over the investigation, and I will ensure it is processed,” said the Home Minister.
His comments came in the wake of a political stir following the suicide of Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, the District Manager of the Punjab State Warehousing Corporation. The Punjab Police have initiated a case against former Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and two others in connection with this incident.
In response to the Home Minister's remarks, Union Minister and BJP leader Ravneet Singh Bittu expressed support for a potential CBI investigation, highlighting the need for political unity in pursuit of justice for the deceased official.
Bittu noted that the Congress, Shiromani Akali Dal, and BJP have collectively prioritized this issue and are advocating for accountability.
“This is a positive development. The Congress party, Akali Dal, and BJP have taken the initiative. Our Home Minister Amit Shah has confirmed that if MPs submit a written request, the case could be transferred to the CBI,” Bittu remarked.
He indicated that this may be the first instance of diverse political factions uniting to protest this matter.
“All parties have come together to demand justice—this is unprecedented. We want accountability,” Bittu stated.
In a tribute to the martyrdom of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru, Bittu called on all Punjab MPs to support the call for a CBI probe.
“Today marks the martyrdom of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru. I honor their sacrifice,” he said.
Bittu also encouraged the two Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MPs from Punjab to join the demand.
“If they genuinely honor Bhagat Singh's legacy, both MPs should also advocate for a CBI investigation,” Bittu added.
The controversy arose after Punjab Police launched an investigation against former Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar following allegations that Gagandeep Singh Randhawa took his own life by consuming poison at his home in Amritsar.
Prior to his death, Randhawa allegedly recorded a video expressing accusations of harassment and coercion against Bhullar. Following a complaint from the deceased’s wife, Upinder Kaur, police have also charged Bhullar’s father, Sukhdev Bhullar, and personal assistant Dilbagh Singh with aiding suicide, criminal intimidation, and conspiracy.
This incident has ignited intense political reactions across Punjab, with opposition parties demanding thorough investigations and strict actions regarding the circumstances surrounding the official’s demise.