Chandigarh, August 4, 2023: Punjab Chief Secretary Anurag Verma has ordered the registration of an FIR against retired DDPO Kuldeep Singh and other beneficiaries of his order dated February 27, 2023, under the Prevention of Corruption Act and other relevant provisions of the Indian Penal Code.
The FIR was ordered after an inquiry found that Singh had committed serious irregularities in transferring 100 acres of panchayat land to private individuals. The inquiry found that Singh had listed the case for hearing on the very next working day before his retirement, and had not given the panchayat an opportunity to present its evidence.
The inquiry also found that Singh had not taken into account all of the relevant jamabandis (records of land ownership) when making his decision.
Verma has also directed the Rural Development Department to initiate disciplinary action against Singh and to withhold his retirement benefits.
This case is a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability in the management of public land. It is also a warning to other officials who may be tempted to engage in corrupt practices.
