PSEB Engineers Demand High Court Judge Probe into Vigilance Action
The Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB) Engineers Association has called for a High Court judge-led investigation into the recent action taken by the vigilance department against the former chairman-cum-managing director of the Punjab State Power Corporation Limited (PSPCL). The association alleges that the vigilance action is part of a larger conspiracy to defame the former chief and undermine the morale of the engineering community.
Background of the Case
The former PSPCL chief, A. Venu Prasad, was booked by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau on charges of alleged irregularities in the award of contracts and appointments during his tenure. The association, however, claims that these allegations are baseless and that the vigilance action was initiated without proper evidence. They argue that the former chief had a clean record and contributed significantly to the improvement of the power sector in Punjab.
Association's Demands
In a press conference held in Chandigarh, the association leaders stated that they have full faith in the judiciary and demanded that a sitting or retired High Court judge be appointed to probe the entire matter. They also urged the state government to ensure that no such action is taken against any engineer without a thorough inquiry. The association further emphasized that the vigilance action has created a sense of insecurity among engineers and demanded immediate steps to restore confidence.
Reactions from Other Quarters
Meanwhile, the opposition parties have also taken up the issue, accusing the state government of using the vigilance department to settle political scores. The former PSPCL chief has denied all charges and has expressed confidence that the truth will prevail. The vigilance bureau, on the other hand, has maintained that its action was based on credible complaints and evidence.
The association has threatened to launch a statewide agitation if their demand for a High Court judge probe is not met within a week. They also plan to approach the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking a fair investigation. The development has once again brought to the fore the ongoing tussle between the engineering community and the state's investigative agencies.
