CBI files FIR, searches sites linked to Bhagwant Mann campers; ED summons CM's bro-in-law

New Delhi: CBI has registered an FIR and launched searches at multiple locations in connection with allegations of corruption involving officials and private persons linked to Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann's office, even as ED has summoned Mann's brother-in-law Amardeep Singh Grewal in connection with its ongoing probe.

The CBI action follows the Punjab and Haryana High Court's direction to register a criminal case and investigate allegations arising from material shared by ED with Punjab Police. HC had directed CBI to submit a status report within two months.

A team of CBI sleuths on Tuesday conducted searches at several locations, including Mann's camp office in Chandigarh and premises linked to his OSD Rajbir Singh Ghuman and his associates. The allegations under investigation relate to alleged corruption in government functioning, including transfers and postings, tenders, access to confidential government documents and other official favours.


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ED had earlier sent communications to Punjab DGP, seeking registration of an FIR against Ghuman and others, but Punjab Police had not registered a case.

ED has now summoned Grewal, a prominent Punjabi film personality and associate of M/s East Sunshine Production Pvt Ltd. Grewal was directed to appear before the agency at its Delhi office on October 7. He sought an adjournment, following which the date for compliance has been revised to October 9.

ED action assumes significance as the agency continues to examine the network of individuals and entities connected with allegations under investigation. Grewal is related to Mann by marriage, and his examination is expected to be considered in the context of material gathered during the probe.

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Meanwhile, the Punjab government has challenged the high court's direction before the Supreme Court. The apex court has agreed to consider the state's plea for urgent listing. CBI's registration of the FIR and searches, coupled with ED's summons to Mann's brother-in-law, marks a significant escalation in the investigation into allegations surrounding persons connected with the Punjab CMO.