In a decisive move aimed at curbing corruption and expediting development in Punjab, the state’s Power and Public Works Minister Harbhajan Singh on Friday conducted a high-stakes review meeting with senior district officials in Moga — primarily focusing on assessing the progress of development works and welfare schemes — that witnessed significant administrative actions taken against those found lacking in their duties.
The session took a dramatic turn when the Minister, demonstrating a zero-tolerance approach to corruption, suspended a Junior Engineer (JE) from the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL) stationed at Bilaspur sub division. The suspension was a result of allegations that the JE had solicited bribes for completing official tasks.
In addition, a private company employee was dismissed on the spot for similar charges of corruption. These actions underscored the Minister’s commitment to transparency and accountability within the state’s administrative and public service sectors.
Not stopping there! The Minister also issued show-cause notices to several officials who had either performed poorly or failed to attend the meeting.
Addressing the assembled officials, the Minister emphasized the need for prompt initiation of approved projects, urging them to expedite the process of issuing labour cards and rationalizing patwaris (land record officers). He also stressed the importance of involving elected representatives in the foundation ceremonies, inaugurations, and other public welfare activities.
“Punjab Government is relentless in its pursuit of the state’s overall development…Timely completion of development projects is crucial for achieving our development goals,” he stressed.
To enhance the sustainability of public services, the Minister instructed the officials to connect schools, hospitals, and Ayush hospitals to solar energy systems — an initiative aimed at increasing the efficiency and reducing the operational costs of these essential services.
Furthermore, Singh reiterated the significance of the ‘Aap Di Sarkar-Aap De Dwar’ campaign, highlighting the need to maximize benefits for the public through this initiative.
