The probe extends beyond his demise, delving into the financial dealings concerning his defence during his incarceration in Punjab.
Amidst the scrutiny surrounding the demise of Mukhtar Ansari, a five-time MLA from Uttar Pradesh’s Mau, and his alleged ties with Punjab, questions linger over the status of a probe initiated by the AAP-led Punjab government into financial irregularities amounting to Rs 55 lakh.
Ansari’s sudden passing due to cardiac arrest on Thursday evening while in custody at Banda district jail prompted authorities to order an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. However, the probe extends beyond his demise, delving into the financial dealings concerning his defense during his incarceration in Punjab.
Dated August 17, 2022, the probe was launched after revelations surfaced regarding the former Congress-led administration’s expenditure of Rs 55 lakh on legal fees to defend Ansari. It was alleged that the previous regime, under Captain Amarinder Singh’s leadership, engaged a senior Supreme Court lawyer, incurring costs of Rs 11 lakh per hearing.
Despite the passage of time, the bills raised by the advocates remain unpaid, casting doubts on the propriety of utilizing public funds for the defense of a notorious criminal. The AAP government has steadfastly refused to clear the bills, citing concerns over accountability and transparency in financial matters.
Jails Minister Harjot Bains has reiterated the government’s commitment to initiating necessary action, including the filing of an FIR, to investigate the alleged financial irregularities. He emphasized the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring that public resources are utilized judiciously and responsibly.
However, despite the mounting evidence, the bills raised by the advocates remain unsettled, casting a shadow of suspicion over the handling of public funds. The AAP government has refused to clear the bills, citing concerns over financing the defense of a notorious criminal.
Jails Minister Harjot Bains has condemned the exorbitant expenditure, emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in the utilization of public resources. He announced the initiation of an FIR to investigate the matter further, underscoring the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
Furthermore, the probe has shed light on alleged preferential treatment afforded to Ansari during his incarceration in Punjab, including luxurious accommodation arrangements and the utilization of state resources for personal convenience.
As the probe into Ansari’s controversial connection with Punjab and the handling of public funds continues, the public awaits answers and accountability in a case that underscores the intersection of politics, crime, and governance.
The Sunday Guardian attempted to have a word with concerned officials of the Punjab government on this matter, but they preferred to remain tight-lipped.