Harmit Singh Sidhu v. State Of Punjab And Others

IN THE HIGH COURT OF PUNJAB AND HARYANA

AT CHANDIGARH **** CWP-39568-2025 Date of Decision: 28.04.2026 HARMIT SINGH SIDHU

...Petitioner

Vs.

STATE OF PUNJAB AND ORS.

...Respondents

CORAM:- HON'BLE MR. JUSTICE JAGMOHAN BANSAL Present:- Mr. Chandan Singh, Advocate for the petitioner Mr. Ishan Kaushal, AAG Punjab *** JAGMOHAN BANSAL, J. (ORAL) 1.

The petitioner through instant petition under Articles 226/227 of the Constitution of India is seeking setting aside of impugned report/finding dated 15.05.2023 whereby complaints/representations dated 15.05.2023 submitted by him were consigned to record. He is further seeking directions to respondents to get the matter inquired from an independent agency in view of inquiry report dated 08.03.2022 submitted by Sh. R.P. Bhatti, Chief Engineer (Retd.). 2.

As per petition, the petitioner is a public-spirited person. He is a social activist. The Punjab State Agricultural Marketing Board under DMI Scheme installed flour weighing machines/weigh bridges. Cost of each weigh bridge was Rs.15,31,000/-. The petitioner sought information under RTI Act and discovered discrepancies including non-installation of DEEPAK BISSYAN 2026.04.28 16:22 I attest to the accuracy and integrity of this document

CWP-39568-2025 -2several sanctioned weigh bridges, installation of cheaper machines. On his complaint, an inquiry was conducted by Sh. R.P. Bhatti, Chief Engineer (Retd.). The inquiry officer in his report dated 08.03.2022 recorded that financial loss has been caused and cost of weigh bridges was unjustified. Despite findings of inquiry officer, the respondent ordered to close petitioner's complaints.

3.

Learned State counsel submits that it is factually incorrect that matter has been closed whereas inquiry is still pending and an appropriate action would be taken against erring officials. 4.

Learned counsel for the petitioner agrees to the aforesaid arrangement.

5.

In the wake of statement of both sides, the instant petition stands disposed of. The Court is sanguine that the competent authority would act swiftly.

6.

Pending application(s), if any, stands disposed of. (JAGMOHAN BANSAL) JUDGE April 28, 2026 Deepak DPA Whether Speaking/reasoned Yes/No Whether Reportable Yes/No DEEPAK BISSYAN 2026.04.28 16:22 I attest to the accuracy and integrity of this document