In a significant development that has sent shockwaves through the political landscape of Punjab, Raman Arora, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA from Jalandhar Central, was arrested by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau (VB) on charges of corruption and fraud. Arora, who was taken into custody while visiting a local temple, is accused of being involved in an elaborate bribery racket within the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation. His arrest follows the earlier detention of former Assistant Town Planner (ATP) of the Corporation, Sukhdev Vashisht, and marks a crucial moment in the Punjab government’s ongoing battle against corruption.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, a staunch advocate of zero-tolerance towards corruption, has swiftly supported the action. He emphasized that his administration’s stance on corruption is clear and uncompromising, whether the accused is an ally or opponent. “Our policy is straightforward: anyone, regardless of their position or affiliations, involved in corrupt practices will not be spared,” said Mann. He reiterated that his government’s commitment to a transparent and honest administration has been unwavering, pointing out that the state has already taken action against ministers and legislators within its own ranks.
The arrest of Arora, who was once a trusted member of AAP, further underscores the government’s resolve to address corruption head-on. The timing of this action, coming after the withdrawal of Arora’s security detail just days before, had already raised suspicions among political observers, who had been anticipating such a development. Arora’s security, previously provided by the state, was revoked in a move that many viewed as a prelude to an official investigation.
According to sources, the arrest followed a raid at Arora’s residence in Jalandhar’s Ashok Nagar, where critical documents and digital evidence were recovered, confirming his involvement in the corruption network. The charges against Arora involve orchestrating a racket in collaboration with municipal officials, particularly those from the building branch. Allegedly, Arora and his associates sent fake notices to unsuspecting citizens, citing violations of building codes, licenses, and property regulations. These notices were then used as leverage to extort money, with the promise of ‘fixing’ the issues in exchange for bribes.
The investigation into Arora’s activities comes after the arrest of Sukhdev Vashisht, the former ATP, who is believed to have played a pivotal role in issuing these fraudulent notices. Following extensive questioning and a month-long probe, the Vigilance Bureau gathered enough evidence to proceed with the arrest. The investigation is still ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather additional evidence against Arora and his network of associates.
This arrest has sparked political reactions across Punjab, with opposition parties seizing the moment to criticize the AAP government. However, the action taken by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has reinforced his image as a leader committed to ridding Punjab of corruption, regardless of political affiliations. Mann’s administration has consistently shown a willingness to take strong measures against corrupt practices within its own ranks, demonstrating a commitment to its zero-tolerance policy.
As the investigation unfolds, it is expected that more revelations will surface, shedding light on the broader corruption network within the Jalandhar Municipal Corporation. This development marks a critical juncture in Punjab’s political landscape and reinforces the ongoing battle for transparency and accountability in the state’s governance.
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