Amritsar (Gurpreet Singh): The alleged suicide of a senior Punjab Warehousing Corporation official has taken a dramatic turn, with police initiating criminal proceedings against former Punjab minister Laljit Singh Bhullar and two others. The case has rapidly escalated into a high-profile political issue, triggering outrage and calls for accountability.
The deceased officer, Gagandeep Singh Randhawa, was posted as a district manager and reportedly died after consuming a toxic substance at his Amritsar residence. Acting on a formal complaint submitted by his wife, authorities have named Bhullar, his father Sukhdev Singh Bhullar, and his aide Dilbagh Singh in the FIR.
Police confirmed that the case includes serious charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, covering abetment to suicide, criminal intimidation, and involvement with shared intent. Officials stated that the investigation is at an early stage, and evidence is being collected to verify the claims.
In her complaint, the officer’s wife has painted a disturbing picture of sustained harassment. She alleged that her husband had been facing relentless pressure related to the distribution of warehouse tenders. According to her, he was repeatedly asked to bend rules to benefit certain interests but chose not to comply.
She further claimed that this refusal led to escalating threats and mental torture. The complaint details instances of intimidation, including warnings of harm to the officer and his family. Allegations of physical assault and coercion have also been made, with claims that he was forced to record a statement under duress.
Family members have stated that Randhawa had been deeply distressed for months. His condition reportedly worsened in recent weeks as the alleged pressure intensified. Before taking the extreme step, he is said to have recorded a short video, which later surfaced online and is now being examined as part of the probe.
The incident has stirred strong political reactions across Punjab. Leaders from various parties have visited the grieving family, demanding a fair and transparent investigation. The case has once again brought attention to the challenges faced by officials working in sensitive administrative roles.
Law enforcement agencies have assured that no angle will be ignored and that strict action will follow if the allegations are substantiated. As the investigation progresses, the case continues to dominate headlines and shape political discourse in the state.
