Senior Punjab Police Officer Apprehended in Corruption Probe
Chandigarh, India – The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday, October 16, 2025, arrested Harcharan Singh Bhullar, a Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police in Punjab, on charges of bribery. The 2007-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, who was serving as the DIG of Ropar Range, was apprehended from his office in Mohali. A private individual, identified as Kirshanu (also referred to as Krishna), allegedly acting as a middleman, was also taken into custody.
The arrests followed a complaint filed by a scrap dealer, Akash Batta, from Mandi Gobindgarh in Fatehgarh Sahib district. Batta alleged that DIG Bhullar had demanded an initial bribe of ₹8 lakh and subsequent monthly payments to 'settle' a 2023 case of cheating and forgery (FIR No. 155/2023) against him and to ensure no further police action against his business.
Extensive Recoveries During CBI Searches
Following the arrests, the CBI conducted extensive searches at various premises linked to Bhullar in Punjab and Chandigarh. These operations led to the recovery of substantial assets, highlighting the alleged scale of the corruption.
- Approximately ₹5 crore in cash.
- 1.5 kg of gold and jewellery.
- Documents pertaining to over 15 immovable properties and other assets across Punjab.
- Keys to two luxury vehicles: a Mercedes and an Audi.
- 22 luxury watches.
- 40 litres of imported liquor.
- Various firearms, including a double-barrel gun, a pistol, a revolver, and an airgun, along with ammunition.
Additionally, ₹21 lakh in cash was recovered from the middleman, Kirshanu.
CBI's Operation and Bhullar's Background
The CBI initiated its action based on a written complaint dated October 11. A trap was meticulously laid, leading to Kirshanu being caught red-handed while accepting ₹8 lakh from the complainant in Chandigarh's Sector 21. A controlled call reportedly confirmed Bhullar's acknowledgment of the payment and his instructions for the complainant and middleman to visit his office.
Harcharan Singh Bhullar has held several significant positions within the Punjab Police. He previously served as DIG Patiala Range, Joint Director at the Vigilance Bureau, and Senior Superintendent of Police in various districts including Mohali. He also notably headed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) that interrogated Akali leader Bikram Singh Majithia in connection with drug smuggling allegations. Bhullar is the son of former Punjab DGP Mehal Singh Bhullar.
Both Bhullar and Kirshanu were scheduled to be produced before a designated court in Chandigarh on Friday, October 17, 2025. The CBI has registered a case under relevant sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 61(2) for criminal conspiracy. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the alleged corruption network.
6 Comments
Katchuka
Good riddance to corrupt elements. Hope this sets an example.
BuggaBoom
While the evidence presented seems substantial, it's important to remember that everyone is innocent until proven guilty. We should commend the CBI's efforts, but also ensure due process is followed rigorously to uphold the integrity of the justice system.
KittyKat
Finally, some real action against corruption! This is what we need.
Noir Black
A much-needed clean-up. More power to the anti-corruption efforts.
Eugene Alta
Just a show. The real kingpins of corruption are never touched.
Donatello
The recovery of such massive assets is truly shocking and shows the depth of the problem. However, it's crucial that the investigation is thorough and unbiased to ensure a fair trial and a just outcome for all involved.