Punjab DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar and his middleman arrested in Rs 8 lakh bribery trap; CBI raids uncover Rs 5 crore cash, luxury cars, jewellery, firearms.
Arrest Triggered by Bribe Allegation
A high-stakes anti-corruption operation led the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to arrest DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar, Ropar Range, Punjab, along with his alleged middleman Krishna, following a complaint of an Rs 8 lakh bribe.
The complaint came from scrap dealer Akash Batta in Fatehgarh Sahib, who alleged Bhullar threatened to implicate him in a case unless he paid the bribe.
Raids Reveal Stunning Assets
Post-arrest raids at multiple properties in Ropar, Mohali, Chandigarh, and Krishna’s residence resulted in the seizure of:
- Approximately Rs 5 crore in cash (still being counted)
- 1.5 kg gold and jewellery
- Luxury vehicles’ keys — a Mercedes and an Audi seized
- 22 high-end watches
- Locker keys, 40 litres of imported liquor
- Firearms & ammunition (shotgun, pistol, revolver, airgun)
- From Krishna’s house: an additional Rs 21 lakh in cash
Officials are continuing searches and financial trail investigations to uncover further assets and money‐laundering connections.
DIG Bhullar’s Career Comes Under Scrutiny
Bhullar, a 2009-batch IPS officer, has held several key assignments including DIG of Patiala Range and as a Senior Superintendent of Police in various districts.
In recent years, he also led a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing drug trafficking linked to political figures.
Since November 2024, he has served as DIG, Ropar Range (covering Mohali, Rupnagar, Fatehgarh Sahib).
What the CBI Says & Next Steps
The CBI alleges Bhullar was demanding recurring payments to “settle” criminal cases. The bribe payments were allegedly routed via Krishna.
A controlled call intercepted by investigators purportedly caught Bhullar acknowledging receipt of the payment.
Bhullar and Krishna will be presented before court. Investigations will expand to trace real estate, bank accounts, shell companies and possible accomplices.
Broader Implications
- The seizure underscores the magnitude of unexplained wealth accumulation even among senior law enforcement officials.
- It may fuel public and judicial pressure for stronger oversight and asset disclosure in police and administrative services.
- The case could lead to further backlash and introspection within the Punjab police and central agencies.
