Five things about Rajinder Singh, the man behind the sting operation against sacked Punjab health minister Vijay Singla

Who is Rajinder Singh?

Rajinder Singh, 57, is a superintendent engineer currently working with the state health department. A civil engineer by qualification, he is on deputation to the Punjab Health System Corporation of the housefed department.

Why does the health department need an engineer?

Singh handles all civil works at the Punjab Health System Corporation, the agency that handles all civil works and medical procurement for the state health department. Another person takes care of the purchases.

Why was the minister allegedly seeking bribes from Rajinder Singh and what was the engineer’s role in handling ministry payments?

Rajinder Singh was promoted about six months ago when his predecessor was repatriated to his home department. Since then, he has been the signatory for the release of payments to contractors. In accordance with the rules, the department’s SDO makes entries in the measurement book after the award of a tender. The superintendent engineer oversees the book and payments are released after his authorization.

How much money was Singh handling when Dr. Singla allegedly asked him for a haircut?

In the case of Health Minister Dr. Vijay Singla, he had awarded works worth Rs 41 crore and released payments worth Rs 17 crore. Rajinder alleged in the FIR that the minister demanded a 2% cut worth Rs 1.16 crore. He claims that the deal was finally done at Rs 5 lakh.

What are his colleagues saying about him?

Singh is due to retire in November this year. His colleagues know him as a discreet engineer. He is not known to have filed charges against anyone. His sting on the minister of his department surprised everyone.