The CBI has evidence of alleged attempts to influence postings of at least 21 senior Punjab government and police officers, the Times of India reported, citing investigative material.
The newspaper said the file also lists 11 alleged attempts to influence policy or government decisions, including in the transport sector. The reported episodes include a request to transfer an officer from an anti-gangster task force and a bid to secure an arms licence. These remain allegations under CBI investigation.
Investigators allege that businessman Nitin Gohal acted as an intermediary between people seeking government favours and Rajbir Singh Ghuman, an officer on special duty to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. Gohal has said he only compiled data and forwarded spreadsheets to the chief minister’s office. The claims have not been established in court.
A day earlier, the Supreme Court postponed Punjab’s challenge to a High Court order directing a CBI investigation. The Hindustan Times reported that the court declined to temporarily halt the probe and scheduled a hearing for the following day. The case concerns allegations involving transfers, tenders and government decisions.