CorruptionProbe – CBI Action at Punjab Vigilance Office Triggers Major Inquiry
CorruptionProbe – The Central Bureau of Investigation launched a major operation at the Punjab Vigilance Bureau headquarters in Mohali after allegations surfaced regarding an alleged bribery arrangement involving senior-linked officials and intermediaries. The action led to the arrest of one suspected middleman and intensified scrutiny on several officers connected to the state’s anti-corruption department.
Raid Conducted After Hotel Meeting Surveillance
According to officials familiar with the investigation, the CBI initially carried out a search operation at a luxury hotel located in Chandigarh’s Sector 35. Investigators reportedly received information that discussions linked to an alleged settlement deal worth nearly Rs 25 lakh were taking place there between a complainant, Vigilance Bureau personnel, and intermediaries.
Sources claimed that OP Rana, who served as the reader to Punjab Vigilance Bureau chief director Sharad Satya Chauhan, was allegedly present during the meeting along with Raghav Goel, who is accused of acting as a mediator in the transaction. While Goel was taken into custody during the operation, Rana is said to have escaped before the arrest team could detain him.
Alleged Bribe Recovery During Operation
Officials associated with the probe stated that investigators recovered nearly Rs 13 lakh during the raid. A case has now been registered under provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act against both the accused individuals.
Investigators believe the alleged transaction may have been linked to the settlement of an ongoing vigilance matter. The CBI has not yet publicly disclosed the exact details of the case under negotiation or the identities of all officials being examined.
The late-night operation later shifted to the Punjab Vigilance Bureau headquarters in Mohali, where searches reportedly continued for several hours into Tuesday morning. Sources indicated that multiple senior officers are currently under observation as part of the expanding inquiry.
Probe Linked to Earlier Corruption Investigation
The latest action is reportedly connected to the broader corruption investigation involving suspended DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar, who was arrested by the CBI last year. Investigators are examining whether there were attempts to influence or manipulate proceedings related to that matter through illegal payments.
During the operation, CBI teams allegedly attempted to contact Vigilance Bureau chief SS Chauhan, but officials claimed his phone remained switched off throughout the night.
A senior official familiar with the investigation stated that several individuals believed to be operating as intermediaries for senior department figures were questioned during the raid. Authorities are also examining the nature of security cover reportedly provided to some of the accused persons.
Political Reactions Intensify After Raid
The development quickly triggered political reactions in Punjab. Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia criticised the Aam Aadmi Party government, alleging that corruption within the state administration was being exposed gradually through central investigations.
In a statement posted on social media, Majithia questioned the functioning of the state government and alleged that the case reflected deeper issues within the administration. He also demanded accountability from Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann over the matter.
Meanwhile, officials from the Punjab Vigilance Bureau maintained that the agency would cooperate fully with investigators. A spokesperson said that a private individual had been apprehended by the CBI and assured that appropriate action would follow if the names of any departmental officials emerged during the investigation.
Questions Raised Over Senior Appointments
The investigation has attracted additional attention because Sharad Satya Chauhan was recently appointed as Director of the Punjab Vigilance Bureau after spending several years away from prominent administrative assignments. Chauhan is also considered the senior-most officer among candidates shortlisted for the Punjab Director General of Police position through the Union Public Service Commission process.
The CBI has not yet released an official statement detailing the exact role of officials under scrutiny or clarifying the full scope of the alleged bribery arrangement. Investigations are continuing, and further arrests or questioning may take place as evidence is reviewed.