CM Bhagwant Says protesting Tehsildars are demanding a license for corruption in the state.
Taking a firm and unprecedented stance against protesting Tehsildars, Punjab CM Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that his government will not succumb to pressure from corrupt officials facing legal action.
During a tour to resume registration work at Kharar, Banur, and Zirakpur tehsils, CM Bhagwant criticized the mass leave taken by Revenue Officers in response to vigilance action against their colleagues. He reaffirmed the AAP government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption, asserting that these officers are essentially demanding a license to continue corrupt practices. He warned that such blackmailing tactics would not be tolerated, and strict action would be taken against them.
CM Bhagwant declared that pressure tactics would be met with firm action, emphasizing plans to recruit new Tehsildars and Revenue Officers, with the proposal set to be presented in the Cabinet. He stated that officers who harass the public will no longer be tolerated, and those on mass leave should be prepared for potential changes in their postings upon their return. He assured that the government has contingency plans in place, including delegating Tehsildars’ powers to teachers and professors if necessary, to ensure uninterrupted service to the people.
To prevent inconvenience to citizens, PCS officers, Kanugos, and Senior Assistants eligible for Naib Tehsildar promotions have been appointed as Sub Registrars to keep registration services running smoothly. He stressed that in a democracy, public welfare is paramount, and no official—regardless of their influence—will be allowed to hinder essential services.
CM Bhagwant criticized the protesting officers for drawing government salaries while neglecting their duties. He warned that if they refuse to work, the state has many qualified unemployed youths ready to replace them. Over the next ten days, he plans to personally visit tehsils across Punjab to ensure smooth operations. He condemned the longstanding corruption in revenue offices, vowing not to stand by while officials continue their misconduct.
CM Bhagwant also addressed ongoing farmer protests, accusing various unions of competing for credit and attempting to disrupt governance. He affirmed the government’s willingness to resolve issues through negotiations but urged protesters to avoid causing public inconvenience through road and rail blockades, which harm the state’s economy.
On the issue of drugs, CM Bhagwant stated that the government has disrupted supply chains and jailed major traffickers. He cited the recent demolition of illegal properties of drug smugglers in Narangwal as part of the administration’s zero-tolerance approach. He emphasized that the anti-drug campaign is evolving into a mass movement to make Punjab drug-free.