Saptrishi Soni।
Ghuman says investigators repeated earlier questions and claims no new facts emerged; summoned again for October 27 as AAP-BJP tensions continue in Punjab**
Rajbir Singh Ghuman, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, appeared before the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Monday and alleged that central investigative agencies were being used under political pressure.
Speaking to reporters after the questioning, Ghuman said the investigators had revisited questions asked during earlier rounds and that, according to him, no new facts had emerged during the latest session. He added that the agency had summoned him again for questioning on October 27.
Ghuman’s remarks have brought fresh political attention to the ongoing investigation, with the Chief Minister’s aide questioning the manner in which central agencies are functioning. His allegations reflect the position he has taken publicly; they do not, by themselves, establish that the investigation is politically motivated.
The CBI’s questioning forms part of an ongoing investigative process. The details of the case, the precise grounds for Ghuman’s summons and the agency’s response to his allegations were not included in the information available about Monday’s appearance. His next scheduled appearance on October 27 is expected to bring further attention to the probe.
Investigation adds to Punjab’s political confrontation
The episode comes amid continuing political friction between the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which governs Punjab, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) at the Centre. AAP leaders have repeatedly raised concerns about the use of central investigative agencies against opposition figures, while allegations of political interference in investigations remain matters that require evidence and responses from the agencies concerned.
For the Mann government, the questioning of a senior aide adds another point of contention in its relationship with the Centre. The political significance of the case is likely to depend on the investigation’s progress, any evidence placed on record and the explanations provided by the parties involved.
With Punjab’s next Assembly elections approaching in 2027, the AAP-BJP confrontation is also taking shape against an increasingly competitive political backdrop. Questions of governance, accountability and the independence of investigative institutions are likely to feature prominently in the debate, as both parties seek to defend their positions before voters. The developments surrounding Ghuman’s questioning may therefore become part of the wider political contest, although the outcome of the investigation remains to be established.
