2 July 2025 : In a case related to the Kali Mata Mandir in Patiala, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has ordered the seizure of the salary of the DC Patiala. This action was taken after the priest of the Kali Mata Mandir in Patiala was not paid his salary despite court orders.
What is the full matter?
Barrister Rubal Garg shared details of the case, stating that Shoorveer Singh (29 years old) had been working as a priest at the Kali Mata Mandir in Patiala. However, since January this year, his salary was abruptly stopped without any prior notice. Later, on April 1, he was also removed from his position as priest.
When Shoorveer Singh filed a petition in the High Court against this, the court put a stay on his removal. Despite the stay order, his salary was still not released. As a result, Shoorveer Singh filed a contempt of court petition against the DC Patiala, who is also the Chairman of the temple’s management committee.
High Court orders release of the priest’s salary
On this petition, the High Court issued a notice to the DC and ordered the release of the priest’s salary. However, even after these court orders, the salary was not paid. Due to this, the High Court has now taken a strict stance, ordering that the salary of the DC Patiala be attached (withheld) until 28 July. The DC has been instructed to comply with the High Court’s orders by that date, or further action may be taken.
Summary:
Punjab HC penalized Patiala DC for ignoring land compensation orders, withholding one-third salary and attaching official assets for non-compliance with court verdict.