AMRITSAR: An internal inquiry into a neighborhood development project in Amritsar has led to the suspension of a senior vigilance officer and the registration of criminal cases, opening a wider examination of how public works funds are monitored and spent.
A Project Meant to Renew a Neighborhood
Ranjit Avenue, one of Amritsar’s better-known residential and commercial areas, has long been the focus of periodic infrastructure upgrades—new roads, improved drainage, and other civic works meant to keep pace with the city’s growth. In recent months, however, those routine development efforts became the subject of growing unease.
Residents and local observers began raising questions about the quality of work being carried out and the pace at which funds were being spent. What initially appeared to be complaints typical of public works projects gradually took on a more serious tone, with allegations that money allocated for development had been diverted or improperly used.
These concerns eventually reached the state government, prompting officials to order a formal inquiry rather than treating the matter as a routine administrative dispute.
An Internal Inquiry Raises Red Flags
The inquiry, conducted by a senior officer, examined records related to the execution of development works in Ranjit Avenue, including fund releases, contractor payments, and on-ground outcomes. According to officials familiar with the probe, the findings pointed to “serious lapses” in both oversight and execution.
Investigators reportedly flagged discrepancies between sanctioned works and what was actually delivered, along with questions about whether funds earmarked for specific projects had been fully used for their intended purposes. The inquiry’s conclusions went beyond procedural shortcomings, suggesting possible financial irregularities.
It was these findings, officials said, that led authorities to move beyond departmental corrections and toward disciplinary and legal action.
Suspension and Criminal Proceedings
On Saturday, the Punjab government suspended Lakhbir Singh, the Vigilance SSP in Amritsar, citing the inquiry’s findings. Almost simultaneously, a first information report was registered not only against the officer but also against a social activist, Mandeep Manna, who authorities believe was connected to the alleged irregularities.
Government officials said the decision reflected the seriousness with which the administration viewed the matter. By suspending a senior vigilance official—an officer tasked with enforcing integrity within the system—the state signaled that the inquiry had uncovered issues that could not be addressed internally.
The registration of an FIR marked a shift from administrative scrutiny to criminal investigation, placing the matter firmly in the domain of law enforcement.
Broader Questions About Oversight
Officials have said that the investigation is continuing and will seek to determine the full extent of the alleged misappropriation, as well as identify any other beneficiaries who may have been involved. At this stage, the allegations remain unproven, and those named have not publicly responded to the charges.
