Mohali: Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) Mohali president Parvinder Singh Sohana Thursday demanded the resignation of Punjab housing and urban development minister Harmanpreet Singh Mundian, citing allegations raised by AAP MP Malvinder Singh Kang regarding the functioning of Gmada.Backing the Anandpur Sahib MP’s remarks, Sohana said when a ruling party MP himself was questioning the functioning of a key govt agency and alleging irregularities, the govt could not afford to ignore the matter. He demanded a high-level, impartial inquiry and said the minister should step aside to ensure a fair investigation.Referring to the recent controversy over Gmada’s action against shops and structures in Saini Majra, Sohana said Kang had publicly questioned why some structures were targeted while adjoining ones were allegedly left untouched. He also noted that the MP had sought the transfer of long-serving Gmada officials and an inquiry into alleged irregularities.“If an MP belonging to the ruling party is raising such serious questions against a govt department and terming Gmada a house of corruption, the govt should order an immediate investigation instead of merely issuing statements,” Sohana said.He said the govt should either conclusively establish that the allegations were baseless or initiate a transparent probe and fix accountability wherever wrongdoing was found. Sohana also urged Kang to follow through on his announcement of staging a protest outside the Gmada office.The SAD leader further sought clarity on the role of officials who have remained posted in Gmada for long periods and demanded that the govt publicly explain the criteria being followed during enforcement drives to ensure rules are being applied uniformly.Sohana also targeted the marketing department of the Mohali municipal corporation, alleging complaints of favouritism and selective action during anti-encroachment drives. While asserting that SAD supports the removal of illegal encroachments, he said enforcement must be uniform and free from discrimination.He alleged that complaints had surfaced from various parts of Mohali that some individuals were tipped off before enforcement drives, allowing them to avoid action. He demanded a detailed inquiry into the functioning of the department to ascertain whether allegations of corruption, collusion or favouritism had any basis.Vigilance Probe If SAD Returns to PowerSohana said if the Shiromani Akali Dal returns to power in Punjab, alleged irregularities and scams linked to the marketing department of the Mohali MC would be subjected to a vigilance inquiry. He said anyone found guilty, including officials or private individuals, would face legal action.Demand for Public DisclosureThe SAD leader demanded that the Punjab govt order an impartial probe into allegations concerning both Gmada and the Mohali MC marketing department. He said the findings should be made public and strict action taken if corruption, favouritism or any other wrongdoing is established.
