CHANDIGARH: The Haryana Congress has accused the BJP government of appointing a “corrupt” IAS officer as the Returning Officer (RO) during the March 2026 Rajya Sabha election. Party leaders claimed the appointment helped the BJP-backed candidate secure victory. They made the allegations after the recent arrest of senior IAS officer Pankaj Agarwal in the alleged government funds misappropriation case.
Congress Raises Fresh Allegations
Congress leaders Aftab Ahmed and Ashok Arora addressed the media in Chandigarh. They claimed the party had warned the Governor and the Election Commission about Pankaj Agarwal before the Rajya Sabha election.
According to the Congress, Agarwal should not have supervised such an important election. The party alleged that he acted in favour of the BJP-backed candidate during the voting process. Congress leaders said his recent arrest has strengthened their earlier concerns.
They also questioned the transparency of the Rajya Sabha election. The party demanded answers from the BJP government over the officer’s appointment.
Demand for an Independent Investigation
The Congress has called for an independent and impartial investigation into the matter. Party leaders said investigators should examine both the financial scam and the officer’s role during the Rajya Sabha election.
They urged the Election Commission to review the circumstances surrounding the appointment of the Returning Officer. The party also demanded accountability from senior government officials if investigators discover administrative lapses.
Congress leaders said the government should not protect any official facing serious corruption allegations. They insisted that every public servant must remain accountable under the law.
BJP Yet to Respond
The BJP has not issued an official response to the latest allegations. However, agencies continue to investigate the alleged government funds scam involving IAS officer Pankaj Agarwal.
Investigators are examining financial records and official documents connected to the case. They will decide the next course of action after completing the investigation.
Congress Criticises Law and Order
During the press conference, Congress leaders also criticised the BJP government over the law and order situation in Haryana. They claimed organised crime, extortion and gang-related incidents have increased across the state.
The opposition also expressed concern over crimes against women. Party leaders urged the government to focus on governance instead of political controversies. They said people expect stronger action against crime and corruption.
Political Row Intensifies
The allegations have triggered a fresh political confrontation in Haryana. The Congress continues to question the government’s decisions, while the BJP has remained silent on the issue so far.
The outcome of the ongoing investigation could have political significance in the coming months. For now, the controversy has once again brought transparency, accountability and election fairness into the spotlight.
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