Demand Impartial Probe into False Allegations Spread on Social Media/ Bram Shankar Jimpa

 *Demand Impartial Probe into False Allegations Spread on Social Media/ Bram Shankar Jimpa

**MLA terms accusations baseless at joint press conference

***Calls for strict legal action against those found guilty

****No question of illegal extortion in my nameMLA demands investigation with transparency and accountability

***Hoshiarpur/Daljeet Ajnoha/Jan.14

MLA Bram Shankar Jimpa addressed a joint press conference today regarding the alleged case of illegal extortion at the Dana Mandi. DSP Dev Dutt Sharma and District Mandi Officer Gurkirpal Singh were also present on the occasion. Referring to a video going viral on social media, the MLA categorically stated that all allegations made in his name are completely baseless, unfounded, and motivated by political conspiracy.The MLA said a video is circulating on social media in which a conversation between a truck driver and a social media handler alleges that slips issued in the mandi are being collected as "gunda tax" in his name. He clarified that he has neither encouraged any such illegal extortion nor instructed any official or employee to do so. He added that the employees issuing the slips themselves stated in the video that the slips were issued entirely in accordance with rules, and there is no question of any illegal collection in the MLA's name. The MLA noted that he has already directed departmental officials to investigate whether the slips are being issued as per norms.MLA Jimpa recalled that when he was a Cabinet Minister in the Punjab government, he had visited the mandis first with the current SSP, listening to the problems of farmers, arthiyas, and traders. Ensuring transparent operations in mandis and protecting farmers' interests has always been his priority. He announced that he will make a written request to the Chief Minister of Punjab, the Mandi Department Minister, the Chairman of the Punjab Mandi Board, and the Deputy Commissioner for a fair and thorough investigation into the entire matter. He will also file a written complaint with the police demanding a probe.After the press conference, MLA Jimpa visited the Dana Mandi and spoke with vegetable traders, listening to their issues. He assured them that no injustice would be tolerated. He also directed police officers to regularly patrol the mandi to prevent any rumours, illegal activities, or disorder in time.On this occasion, DSP Dev Dutt Sharma stated that the matter would be investigated seriously, with a detailed review of all rules related to slip issuance in the mandi. If the allegations are found to be false, strict action will be taken as per law. District Mandi Officer Gurkirpal Singh added that anyone facing issues in the mandi can directly contact the department. It is not right to level accusations without facts, and the matter will be probed at the departmental level.