Punjab Court Demands Report on AAP’s Advertisement Spending

Mallika Sadhu

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03-04-2025

4 min read

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Punjab Court Demands Report on AAP’s Advertisement Spending

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has instructed the Punjab Government to submit a detailed report on advertising expenditures since the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) took over governance in March 2022. The AAPs Advertisement directive was issued by Justice Harkesh Manuja during the hearing of a contempt petition filed by attorney Jaibir Singh against IAS officer Ajoy Kumar Sinha, accused of failing to adhere to the courts previous directives concerning the release of benefits.

What Led the Court to Question Punjabs Financial Obligations?

The courts directive came in response to concerns about the significant financial obligations of the state, including salaries, pensions, and retirement benefits for government employees. Documentation from a meeting of the Cabinet subcommittee, led by the states Finance Minister, was submitted to the court. It highlights these financial obligations. The court learned that the benefits owed to the petitioners had to be released from October to November 2021. However, the process not been followed, raising apprehensions regarding default in payment in the future.

What Details Has the Court Requested on AAPs Advertisement Spending?

Justice Manuja has asked the Punjab Finance Secretary to submit an affidavit detailing the expenditures on AAPs Advertisement in both print and electronic media. The request includes spending on both official and unofficial programs of ministers and elected representatives. It also encompasses advertisements promoting welfare schemes since the AAP government took office. The court emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the governments spending on advertisements and other promotional activities.

How Much Has the AAP Government Spent on Advertisements?

Reports indicate that the AAP government in Punjab has been spending approximately INR 2 crore per day on advertisements. The expenditure spans various media outlets across the country and includes promotions for initiatives. The initiatives include the anti-corruption helpline and compensation for farmers adopting direct sowing of paddy.

What Are the Implications of the High AAPs Advertisement Expenditure?

The high expenditure on advertisements has raised concerns among senior officials. Some officials have requested transfers to avoid potential future inquiries. The significant spending on publicity has also led to scrutiny from various sources, questioning the prioritization of funds in a financially constrained state. The courts directive aims to ensure that the governments spending on advertisements is transparent and accountable, benefiting the public effectively. The Punjab Finance Secretary is expected to submit the detailed affidavit as directed by the court.

The courts directive highlights the importance of financial accountability. It also highlights the need for governments to prioritize spending in a manner that benefits the public effectively. The development highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure transparency and accountability in government spending, particularly advertisement expenditures. The courts directive is a step toward addressing concerns about the use of public funds. It also ensures that they are utilized for the benefit of the people.