Before sacking Punjab Health Minister Dr Vijay Singla, Bhagwant Mann calls him to his residence and plays recording on demand for 'shukrana'

Ruchika M Khanna

Chandigarh, May 24

Mansa district’s joie de vivre at having got a minister after three decades was rather short lived. The voters here had voted en masse for the now removed Health Minister Dr Vijay Singla, but it was his seeking of “shukrana” that ultimately led to his fall. 

Also read: Punjab health minister sacked over corruption charges; was asking for kickbacks in tender, arrested

Sources in the government said that the minister was seeking “shukrana” – a term now used in the corridors of power for commission – from a Bathinda resident, for allotment of a tender in Health and Family Welfare department. An officer in the Health and Family Welfare department, who knew of Dr Singla’s “clandestine dealing” reportedly approached the CM. The CM assured the officer of his protection and asked him to get proof.  The officer and the person from whom the commission was sought, made an audio recording of the meeting with the now removed Health Minister.

Once this recording reached the CM and discreet inquiries were made about the minister and his dealings in the affairs of his department, CM Mann decided to confront the minister. The minister was called by the CM and the recording was reportedly played before him, and asked if it were his voice. He is learnt to have admitted to it. In the recording, say sources, the minister was reportedly telling the person that he should give the “shukrana“ to his nephew. 

Meanwhile, CM Bhagwant Mann ordered for the FIR to be registered at Mohali and the Anti-Corruption cell of the police has arrested him immediately.