Initiating an anti-corruption crusade in the State governance system, Punjab Government on Monday withdrew extension in service given to three Excise and Taxation Officers (ETOs) on charges of “negligence in duty, involvement in corrupt practices and doubtful integrity”.
The State Government’s move was the part of its efforts to eliminate corruption and bring in transparency. “The three ETOs —Sharminder Singh Sidhu, Satpal and Jarnail Ram — have been given marching order one-year before their tenure was to end,” said an official spokesperson.
The Excise Department has also launched a helpline number — 1800-258-2580 — and an e-mail id — rahatscheme2014@gmail.com — for public to file complaints in this regard, said the spokesperson.The three ETOs were facing charges of dereliction in duty, involvement in corrupt practices and doubtful integrity.
He said that under new policy, these officers had got two-year extension in services after completion of their service till 58 years and they have completed one year from the extended period.
Spokesperson said that ETO Satpal had failed to keep a check on illegal activities of trading firms leading to tax evasion, while Jarnail Ram had failed to check corrupt practices being run by other officials at his duty point at ICC Harsa-Mansar barrier, where he was in-charge of all operations.
During investigation, it came to light that two sewadars deployed at Harsa-Mansar barrier were taking illegal gratifications from vehicles. The accused have confessed before the investigating officer that they were extorting money at the behest of senior officer deployed at the barrier.
Spokesperson said that action has been taken against the erring officers, who have caused loss to the public exchequer, under the Punjab Civil Services Rules (Punishment and Appeals).