Chandigarh, August 24: Dr Gurpreet Kaur Mann has firmly rejected allegations of soliciting Rs 5 crore to settle a rape investigation, asserting that the claims are a deliberate attempt to politically damage Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann.
The allegations were brought forward by retired High Court judge Justice Ranjit Singh, who maintained that a close relative of Gurpreet had pestered a rape accused to pay the sum to scuttle the ongoing case. Gurpreet has denied all charges, maintaining that no evidence exists to support the claim.
Speaking to reporters during a Teej function in Patiala while flanked by Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh and Women’s Commission chief Raj Lalli Gill, Gurpreet affirmed that she would not yield to political attacks. She stated that she challenges her accusers to prove their claims or face legal action, adding that opposition leaders are reaching new lows for political leverage.
Following the initial accusations, institutional oversight mechanisms were initiated alongside formal legal responses. The National Human Rights Commission directed Punjab’s top administrative and police officials to file an action taken report within two weeks, prompting the Chief Minister’s Office to issue a legal notice to the retired judge.
Amid demands from opposition parties seeking answers and calling for political accountability, Gurpreet maintained that the administration’s track record remains solid. She stated that the people of the state can clearly distinguish between AAP and traditional political parties, maintaining that governance outcomes and female-centric welfare initiatives will guide public judgment in the 2027 polls.
