- December 19, 2023
Dr. Mohi Among Six Nabbed in Punjab PPSC Recruitment Scam: VB Uncovers Blatant Irregularities in Medical Officer Selection
Punjab’s Public Service Commission Scandal: Ex-Chairman and Members Booked for Recruitment Irregularities
The Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) has unveiled a major corruption case involving the state’s Public Service Commission (PPSC) and the recruitment of 312 medical officers (MOs) in 2008-2009. The shocking allegations point towards blatant irregularities and favoritism during the selection process, prompting the VB to register a case against the former PPSC chairman and four ex-members, with one arrest already made.
Key Figures in the Case:
- S.K Sinha: Former PPSC Chairman (deceased)
- Brig (Retd) D.S. Grewal: Former PPSC member (deceased)
- Dr Satwant Singh Mohi: Former PPSC member and ex-MLA (arrested)
- D.S. Mahal: Former PPSC member
- Ravinder Kaur: Daughter-in-law of former minister Lal Singh
- Anil Sarin: BJP spokesperson and former PPSC member
Unraveling the Allegations:
The Punjab and Haryana High Court had ordered the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) in 2013 following writ petitions challenging the recruitment process for the 312 MO positions. The SIT, led by M.S. Baali (Retd. Joint Commissioner, CBI) and Suresh Arora (former Director General Vigilance), meticulously investigated the matter and unearthed substantial evidence of irregularities.
Report Exposes Corruption:
The SIT’s comprehensive report presented to the High Court revealed glaring discrepancies in the selection process, leading to the conclusion that the entire recruitment of 312 doctors was tainted by corruption. Based on these findings, the VB registered an FIR at the VB police station Patiala range under the Prevention of Corruption Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) against the former PPSC chairman and four members.
Current Developments and Future Outlook:
With Dr Satwant Singh Mohi already arrested, raids are underway to apprehend the remaining accused. This high-profile case has sent shockwaves through the state’s medical community and raised serious concerns about transparency and fairness in public service recruitment. The VB’s swift action and ongoing investigation signal a strong commitment to combating corruption and upholding the integrity of public institutions.