Chandigarh, Feb 25 : During the Punjab Assembly session, the state government announced an audit of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds allocated by the Guru Gobind Singh Refinery in Bathinda over the past five years. Industry Minister assured Talwandi Sabo MLA, Professor Baljinder Kaur, that the government is issuing orders for the audit immediately.

₹180 Crore CSR Fund Received in Five Years

Raising the matter during Zero Hour, MLA Baljinder Kaur questioned the department on the total CSR funds received. In response, the minister revealed that ₹180 crore had been allocated in the last five years, out of which ₹153 crore had already been spent.

Expressing concerns over the fund utilization, the MLA alleged that the funds were primarily used for installing swings, without significant developmental impact. Addressing these concerns, the minister assured that an audit of the past five years’ expenditures would be conducted.

Concerns Over Local Employment

The MLA further pointed out that local transporters were being sidelined by the refinery. She urged the minister to ensure that large industries operating in a region prioritize local employment.

Assembly Witnesses Heated Debate Over Party Fund Allegations

The Punjab Assembly also saw intense clashes between the ruling party and the opposition over allegations that Powercom officials had collected money under the pretext of party funds. Opposition leader Partap Singh Bajwa demanded an investigation through a House Committee or a judicial inquiry. However, Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan deferred the matter, stating that multiple committees were already overseeing government operations. He advised Bajwa to present his concerns before the Petition Committee.

During Zero Hour, Bajwa further alleged that a Powercom organization had asked subordinate officials to contribute ₹50,000 towards the party fund, leading to a vigilance case being registered. He reiterated his demand for a thorough probe into the matter.