CM Mann's OSD Sends Defamation Notice to Congress Leader Sukhpal Khaira, Demands Apology within 72 Hours

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's Officer on Special Duty (OSD) Rajbir Singh has sent a defamation notice to Congress leader Sukhpal Singh Khaira, demanding a written apology within 72 hours. The notice alleges that Khaira made false and baseless accusations against Singh, damaging his reputation.

Background of the Controversy

The controversy began when Sukhpal Khaira leveled serious allegations of corruption against the Punjab government, specifically targeting CM Bhagwant Mann, OSD Rajbir Singh, and the Punjab Police DGP. Khaira claimed a scam worth crores in the procurement of 144 vehicles for the Road Safety Force (SSF), questioning the hidden amount of about Rs 14.5 crore and demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe.

Previous Legal Actions

This isn't the first time Rajbir Singh has taken legal action against those making allegations against him. Earlier, Singh sent a legal notice to Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia, who made defamatory statements against him. The Chandigarh District Court granted an ad-interim injunction in favor of Singh, restraining Majithia from disseminating alleged defamatory statements on public platforms.

Potential Consequences

If Sukhpal Khaira fails to apologize within the stipulated 72-hour timeframe, which ends on Monday, July 29, legal action will be initiated against him. The development has sparked tension in Punjab politics, with opposition parties increasing pressure on the government to demonstrate transparency and accountability.