In a sweeping anti-corruption drive, the Punjab Vigilance Bureau on Monday raided Regional Transport Authority (RTA) offices and driving test centres across the state, resulting in the arrest of 24 individuals allegedly involved in bribery and fraudulent practices, officials confirmed.
The crackdown follows a series of complaints received via the Punjab Chief Minister’s anti-corruption helpline. During the operation, authorities seized a total of ₹40,900 in cash from various agents acting as intermediaries between citizens and transport officials. These agents reportedly charged illegal fees to expedite driving license processing and manipulate driving test outcomes.
A spokesperson from the Vigilance Bureau stated that 16 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered so far, with more legal action likely as investigations progress. “This is part of the government’s zero-tolerance policy against corruption in public offices,” the spokesperson said.
Arrests Across Multiple Districts
In Mohali, private agent Sukhwinder Singh was caught red-handed accepting ₹2,500 out of a ₹5,000 bribe for facilitating a driving license and test clearance.
In Fatehgarh Sahib, agent Paramjit Singh was arrested while taking ₹5,000 for similar unlawful services.
Ludhiana saw the arrest of three individuals—Pankaj Arora alias Sunny, Deepak Kumar, and Manish Kumar—for demanding bribes ranging from ₹1,500 to ₹3,500.
In Jalandhar, agents Mohit Kumar and Vijay Kumar were nabbed while accepting ₹2,000 to fast-track driving test appointments.
Hoshiarpur resident Ashok Kumar was found accepting ₹5,000 to pass a driving test without undergoing proper trials.
A major breakthrough occurred in Kapurthala, where agent Sher Amrik Singh was arrested with ₹12,000 in cash, pointing to possible collusion with RTA officials.
Further arrests were made in SBS Nagar, Sangrur, Tarn Taran, and Gurdaspur, signaling the widespread nature of corruption within the transport sector.
Anti-Corruption Efforts Intensify
The Vigilance Bureau emphasized that these operations are part of an ongoing campaign to ensure transparency and integrity in government services. “The message is clear—there will be no room for corruption in Punjab’s public systems,” the spokesperson added.
Officials have urged citizens to report any suspicious activity or demands for bribes through the anti-corruption helpline, assuring swift and strict action.
Sources By Agencies
