Punjab initiates anti corruption crusade in Excise Department; Withdraws extended services of 3 ETOs

Chandigarh, February 16, 2015: Launching anti-corruption crusade in State governance system, the Punjab Government has withdrawn the extension in services given to three excise and taxation officers (ETOs) by scrapping their remaining one year service in context of negligence in duty, involvement in corrupt practices and doubtful integrity.

Disclosing this here today an official spokesman said this exercise has been initiated by the excise and taxation department to witness transparency vis-a-vis elimination of corruption. Taking strict measures excise department has launched a helpline number 1800-258-2580 and email [email protected] for public to file their complaints in this regard", he added.

Giving details he said three ETOs, whose extension in services have been revoked, are Sharminder Singh Sidhu, Satpal and Jarnail Ram were facing charges of dereliction in duty, involvement in corrupt practices and doubtful integrity. He said that under new policy of the State these officers had got extension of two years in services after completion of their service till 58 years and they have completed one year from the extended period. He said as per the preliminary investigations grave negligence had come during detailed inquires have been conducted by the department, so this decision has been taken.

The spokesman informed that ETO Satpal had failed to keep a check on the illegal activities of trading firms leading to tax evasion. He said Jarnail Ram had failed to check corrupt practices being run by other officials at his duty point at ICC Harsa-Mansar barrier, where he was incharge of all operations.

During investigation and examination of video recordings it has came to light that two sewadars deployed at the Harsa-Mansar barrier were taking illegal gratifications from vehicles. The accused have confessed before the investigation officer that they were extorting money at the behest of senior officer deployed at the barrier. He said under Punjab Civil Services Rules (punishment and appeals) action has been taken against the erring officers.

The spokesman said that grave negligence in duty shown by these officers has witnessed loss to public exchequer and the action under provisions of Punjab Civil Services has been taken against the erring officers.