The fight against corruption in Punjab’s police force entered a new stage as CBI arrests shine light on corruption issues and exposed serious flaws in the system. The arrest of DIG Bhullar showed how deep corruption runs in the police hierarchy and highlighted the urgent need to hold every officer, from the top ranks to the lowest, accountable for their actions.

Corruption in the Punjab Police has existed for years. In April 2025, authorities suspended ADGP SPS Parmar, then the chief director of vigilance, along with officers Swarandeep Singh and Harpreet Mander. Although investigators did not file major charges against them, their removal signaled rising concerns. In May 2025, the suspension of Fazilka SSP Varinder Singh Brar drew attention after four junior officers accepted ₹1 lakh from a minor boy to ignore disturbing videos on his phone. AAP leader Manish Sisodia declared that no officer, regardless of rank, would escape punishment for corruption.

Brar’s reinstatement in August 2025 shocked many and raised doubts about the government’s commitment to fighting corruption. Disciplinary action mostly targeted lower-ranking officers, often involved in smaller cases. Meanwhile, the CBI discovered ₹5 crore at DIG Bhullar’s home, a far larger amount than any other corruption case in recent memory.

On September 30, 2025, DGP Yadav ordered police commissioners and superintendents to strictly enforce a zero-tolerance policy. He promised to punish every corrupt officer. Despite this, data showed that most investigations still targeted junior personnel, while senior officers avoided serious consequences.

Punjab Police announced that it dismissed 52 officers under the AAP government’s anti-corruption campaign. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann repeatedly emphasized transparency and accountability. However, a deeper look showed that many removals involved absenteeism or minor misconduct rather than major corruption.

Several examples illustrate the issue. Officers like ASI Shashpal Singh and ASI Balwinder Singh lost their jobs for repeated absence. In 2023, authorities arrested ASI Jagroop Singh for taking a ₹5,000 bribe, while Harpal Singh faced court for a ₹20,000 bribe in 2022. Inspector Kuldeep Singh faced extortion charges for allegedly taking ₹28 lakh. Police also dismissed several constables for possessing drugs or accepting small bribes. These incidents, while serious, pale in comparison to the large sums linked to senior officers.

The depth of the problem became clearer when Justice Anoop Chitkara of the Punjab and Haryana High Court denied bail to AIG Rajjit Singh Hundal. Authorities removed Hundal from service in 2023 for corruption and drug trafficking links. Justice Chitkara quoted Francis Beaumont: “Corruption is a tree whose branches are of an unmeasurable length; they spread everywhere.” His words reflected how corruption destroys trust and authority across the system.

Experts argue that the state needs stronger measures than dismissals and arrests. They recommend transparent investigations, independent oversight bodies, and digital monitoring of police activities to reduce corruption. They also stress the importance of whistleblower protection and regular training programs to encourage honest officers to report wrongdoing.

Public trust in the police remains fragile. People expect officers to protect them, not exploit their power. Civil society groups have urged the government to create an independent police complaints authority and strengthen vigilance systems to address corruption among senior officials.

In conclusion, CBI arrests shine a light on corruption issues and reveal the scale of corruption in the Punjab Police. While action against junior officers continues, true reform requires accountability at the highest levels. Only consistent enforcement, strong oversight, and a culture of transparency can rebuild public trust and create a police force that serves justice.

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Today, a tragic incident unfolded as accident on Jalandhar-Hoshiarpur road claims life, raising fresh concerns about road safety in Punjab. The accident happened near Nangal Shama link road when a Thar vehicle collided with a scooter. Following the crash, the Thar caught fire, leading to a devastating situation. Sadly, the scooter rider lost his life in the incident.

The crash occurred in the evening when the speeding Thar rammed into an Activa scooter. Witnesses shared that the SUV dragged the scooter for several meters before it exploded in flames. The victim, identified as Hardev Singh, 65, was a respected former Congress sarpanch of Nauli village in Adampur. His sudden death has deeply shocked the community, which remembers him for his decades of service and dedication to public welfare.

After the collision, the Thar driver fled the scene before authorities could arrive. Emergency teams, including fire services and police, reached quickly and controlled the blaze. Investigators have started collecting CCTV footage and eyewitness statements to track down the absconding driver. Police say reckless driving and overspeeding are likely causes of the accident.

This tragedy highlights a growing problem in Punjab. Road safety remains a serious challenge, with around 13 people dying every day in road accidents. According to a 2022 report, Punjab ranks third in India for the highest number of road fatalities. The Jalandhar-Hoshiarpur road, in particular, has a troubling history of accidents due to heavy traffic, poor road conditions, and frequent violations of traffic rules.

Experts believe that several factors contribute to such incidents. Overspeeding, distracted driving, lack of helmets and seat belts, and weak enforcement of traffic laws are major reasons. Additionally, poorly maintained roads and inadequate signage make driving more dangerous. Traffic police have urged drivers to follow rules, reduce speed, and stay alert, especially on high-risk roads like this one.

The government has launched various road safety initiatives, including stricter penalties, better traffic management, and awareness campaigns. Authorities are also planning to install more surveillance cameras, improve road lighting, and fix damaged stretches to prevent future tragedies. However, officials admit that enforcement must become more consistent to make a real difference.

Community involvement is equally important. Local groups and NGOs are organizing awareness drives to educate drivers about safe practices. They encourage wearing helmets, maintaining safe distances, and avoiding drunk driving. Schools and colleges are also including road safety lessons to instill responsible habits in young drivers.

In the wake of Hardev Singh’s death, residents are calling for urgent safety upgrades along the Jalandhar-Hoshiarpur road. Many have demanded speed breakers, more police patrolling, and visible warning signs in accident-prone areas. They believe these steps, along with strict action against reckless drivers, can help save lives.

Ultimately, the heartbreaking loss of a respected leader reminds us that safety on the road is everyone’s responsibility. By following traffic rules, staying aware, and supporting safety efforts, we can reduce accidents and protect lives. The tragedy where accident on Jalandhar-Hoshiarpur road claims life should serve as a wake-up call for all drivers and policymakers to act now before more lives are lost.

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Today, in Amritsar, DIG reviews crime scene and rewards police officers during an important crime review meeting. Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Nanak Singh led the session, which brought together senior officers and Station House Officers (SHOs) from the Amritsar rural police. The purpose was to discuss key issues, evaluate ongoing cases, and plan stronger strategies for community safety.

The meeting focused on several crucial points. Officers reviewed pending cases that still need resolution, discussed ongoing investigations, and examined the overall performance of the police force. They also talked about enhanced security measures due to the growing threat of weapons and explosives in the border areas. With recent seizures of dangerous materials, authorities emphasized the need for vigilance and preventive action.

Senior Superintendent of Police Maninder Singh and SP (Detective) Aditya Warrier joined the meeting, along with other senior officers and field staff. Together, they shared strategies for managing rising threats and discussed ways to strengthen law enforcement efforts.

A key highlight of the session was the recognition of police personnel for their dedication and service. DIG Nanak Singh awarded 134 officers for their outstanding contributions. The total cash reward amounted to ₹8.90 lakh. Each officer received a DGP Commendation Disc and a certificate of appreciation, celebrating their role in protecting the community.

Another major topic was the ongoing “War Against Drugs” campaign. This statewide initiative focuses on breaking drug supply networks, arresting traffickers, and raising awareness about drug abuse. Since its launch, the Amritsar rural police have registered 879 First Information Reports (FIRs) and arrested 1,491 people involved in drug peddling and other crimes. These numbers reflect the force’s strong commitment to combating drug-related activities.

The fight against drugs goes beyond arrests. It includes rehabilitation efforts, awareness drives, and cooperation with local communities. Drug abuse not only damages lives but also weakens families and neighborhoods. Therefore, effective prevention and support systems are vital.

At the same time, authorities are paying close attention to weapon trafficking and cross-border smuggling. Punjab’s border areas often face attempts to bring illegal items into the country, posing a serious security risk. Stronger surveillance, intelligence sharing, and border patrols are part of the police’s current strategy to address these threats.

Community involvement remains essential to law enforcement success. Police encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities without fear. Increased cooperation can improve safety and create a strong partnership between residents and law enforcement.

The meeting highlighted the police force’s commitment to public safety and recognized their tireless efforts to combat crime. It also underlined the importance of teamwork, intelligence, and public participation in keeping communities secure.

In conclusion, DIG reviews crime scene and rewards police officers captured the growing determination to tackle crime, drug abuse, and security threats in the region. With consistent efforts, strong policies, and community support, the goal of a safer Punjab is within reach.

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