Outsiders recruited to run Punjab's key depts, alleges Sukhbir Badal

Shiromani Akali Dal president Sukhbir Singh Badal on Tuesday accused state’s ruling AAP of “clandestinely recruiting” 22 outsiders in the Punjab Development Commission to run 10 key departments.

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He also took a swipe at AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal, alleging that he was trying to run Punjab like the British East India Company.

In a statement, Badal alleged that the AAP top leadership was not only taking over the governance of the state but also “plundering” Punjab’s treasury by hiring outsiders at exorbitant salaries as advisors and communication officers.

He said the recruitments had been made in departments including agriculture, education, health, power and culture and tourism.

He said the notification omitted any requirement for Punjabi proficiency or preference for Punjabis, clearing the path for the recruitment of AAP cronies.

Badal also accused Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann of “surrendering Punjab to looters”. “It is high time for Bhagwant Mann to step down,” he said.