Dr. Gurpreet Kaur Mann Challenges Accusations Amid Controversial Bribery Allegations
Patiala, August 23: Dr. Gurpreet Kaur Mann, wife of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, faces serious allegations of soliciting a bribe of five crore rupees to suppress a rape case. In a recent media interaction, she boldly addressed these accusations, challenging her opponents to face legal consequences for what she termed as baseless claims.
While attending a women’s program in Patiala, Dr. Mann expressed her satisfaction with the event, noting it was a significant gathering for women, bringing mothers and sisters together after a long time.
Regarding the bribery allegations, she stated, “It’s easy to make accusations. They are unfounded. I am ready to confront those making these claims. I have never been intimidated by such allegations, and I stand firm against them. I challenge anyone making these accusations to either provide evidence or be prepared to face legal action.”
Dr. Mann emphasized that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is fulfilling all its promises. She highlighted the government’s efforts in education for girls, healthcare for the elderly, and job creation for the youth, asserting that this is the first government to prioritize women’s issues significantly.
Meanwhile, a protest led by Punjab BJP district president Salil Kapoor took place in Amritsar, where effigies of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and his wife were burned. Party workers vocally opposed the state government, with one BJP female worker stating that Dr. Mann has placed a five crore rupee price on women’s dignity, implying that anyone could compromise a woman’s honor and escape with a bribe.
The opposition has intensified its attacks on Dr. Mann, demanding a CBI investigation into the bribery claims and calling for Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s resignation.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari posted on social media platform ‘X’, stating, “The Aam Aadmi Party’s anti-women political facade has been exposed. Their corruption is evident, and they even attempted to cover it up.”
Bhandari further noted that the National Human Rights Commission has taken cognizance of the allegations, which were made by former Punjab judge Justice Ranjit Singh. The commission has instructed the Punjab Chief Secretary and DGP to investigate the matter and submit a report within two weeks.
Additionally, Shiromani Akali Dal General Secretary Bikram Singh Majithia criticized Bhagwant Mann, calling him a ‘betrayer of Guru’ and demanding accountability. He questioned what justice a rape victim could expect from a police force that operates at the Chief Minister’s behest, suggesting that the police are more focused on protecting the accused than supporting the victim.
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