Gaurav Bhatia accuses Punjab CM Mann of running transfer-posting racket

The Bharatiya Janata Party has leveled serious corruption allegations against Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, claiming his administration operates a systematic pay-to-play scheme for state officials. National spokesperson Gaurav Bhatia pointed to an ongoing investigation into the CM's staff, suggesting that critical government postings are being sold to the highest bidder.

Editorial·September 2, 2026·reads: 2,998

Gaurav Bhatia accuses Punjab CM Mann of running transfer-posting racket

Bhatia specifically implicated Rajbir Singh Ghuman, an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to the Chief Minister, alleging that he orchestrated a network to influence the placement of IAS and IPS officers. According to the BJP, evidence uncovered by the Enforcement Directorate suggests the existence of a formal rate card dictating the price for specific bureaucratic charges. During a press conference, the spokesperson argued that these financial irregularities undermine the integrity of the state machinery.

The rhetoric extended beyond local governance to encompass broader security concerns. Bhatia questioned the handling of confidential lists shared between state and central authorities, suggesting that the alleged lack of administrative oversight creates risks for national security. By framing the Chief Minister as a symbol of institutional decay, the BJP is intensifying its pressure on the Aam Aadmi Party ahead of further investigations into the alleged graft.