Punjab minister sees scam in tourist complexes sales

Kapurthala, June 7 (UNI) Even as Punjab Tourism Minister Hira Singh Gabria announced a probe into the sale of 14 government tourist complexes during Congress rule, the Principal Secretary Tourism, Geetika Kalha chose to defend the sale.

Making the announcement at a media conference here today, Mr Gabria said the tourism department was collecting all the records as this issue was even raised by Transport Minister Master Mohan Lal in the state assembly. He pointed out that the Transport Minister wanted to know the details about the sale of the tourist complex at Pathankot.

At this point, Ms Kalha intervened and defended the sale which she said was through tender auction. The Secretary however kept mum when the Minister told her that it was a political issue and she should not interfere in it.

The Minister said the department would cancel the sale deeds if any scam was found in the inquiry. District Akali Dal President Raghbir Singh also brought to the notice of the minister the sale of Shalimar Gardens tourist complex here at a throw-away price.

UNI