Chandigarh: In a significant crackdown on corruption within its ranks, the Punjab Police have arrested Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Rajan Pal for allegedly attempting to bribe an official’s staff to suppress a complaint filed against him. Rajan Pal, posted at the Crime Against Women Cell in Faridkot, was caught offering a bribe of Rs 1 lakh to an Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) to cover up allegations of misconduct.
Allegations Stem from Matrimonial Dispute Case
The controversy arose when Kiranjit Kaur, a resident of Pakka village, lodged a complaint related to a matrimonial dispute. Her brother, Karmtej Singh, alleged that DSP Rajan Pal demanded Rs 1 lakh to take action on the case. Despite reportedly receiving the bribe, the DSP allegedly did not proceed with any legal action.
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Attempted Bribe to Senior Officer’s Staff
When the family escalated the matter to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Dr. Pragya Jain, the accused DSP allegedly sought to bribe her assistant, Assistant Sub-Inspector Jaswinder Singh, to suppress the complaint. The bribery attempt was exposed, leading to DSP Rajan Pal’s arrest under the Prevention of Corruption Act.
Official Confirmation and Ongoing Investigation
A senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that a case has been registered against Rajan Pal, who is now in custody. Investigations are underway, and disciplinary measures, including a likely suspension, are expected to follow.
Context: Recent Anti-Corruption Actions in Punjab Police
This incident follows closely on the heels of another corruption case, where Head Constable Raj Kumar was arrested by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau for accepting a bribe of Rs 1 lakh. Raj Kumar was serving as an assistant reader to the DSP of Bhucho, Ravinder Singh, and a case under the Prevention of Corruption Act has been registered in the Bathinda range.
Additionally, last month, DSP Harbans Singh Dhaliwal of Bathinda was suspended for alleged misconduct related to the handling of organized crime cases, reflecting increased vigilance against corruption within the Punjab Police.
Implications for Police Accountability
The recent arrests highlight Punjab Police’s renewed efforts to curb corruption and enhance accountability within its ranks. Officials stress the importance of transparency and swift action to maintain public trust in law enforcement agencies.
