The arrest of Krishanu Sharda, a former Chandigarh hockey player, has added an unexpected twist to the bribery case involving Punjab Police DIG (Ropar Range) Harcharan Singh Bhullar. Once seen at social gatherings, police events, and music shows alongside politicians, officers, and Punjabi singers, Krishanu’s connections have now drawn intense scrutiny from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Investigators say Krishanu, in his early thirties, functioned as Bhullar’s conduit for bribe deals, managing meetings, cash collections, and communication with those seeking police favours. His role came to light after the CBI caught him red-handed accepting Rs 8 lakh from a scrap dealer in Mandi Gobindgarh. The bribe, officials said, was allegedly meant for Bhullar to “settle” a police case filed in 2023 at Sirhind.
A CBI officer confirmed that Bhullar had been in direct contact with Krishanu and had allegedly instructed him over a recorded WhatsApp call to collect the bribe. The number used in the call was later verified as Bhullar’s official phone. The agency has since recovered Rs 7.5 crore in cash, about 2.5 kg of gold, and property documents from Bhullar’s residence, while Rs 21 lakh was found from Krishanu’s possession.
What has surprised many within the police establishment is how comfortably Krishanu moved among influential people across Punjab’s political and entertainment circles. His social media pages, now under review, show photographs with well-known politicians, singers, and senior police officers. Those who knew him describe him as a familiar face at Punjab Police Headquarters in Chandigarh, where he would frequently attend events and official ceremonies.
Sources said Krishanu had no formal position in the police, but his easy access to officers and politicians allowed him to function as a middleman — someone who could “get things done.” He reportedly handled introductions and negotiations for Bhullar and others, often visiting officers’ residences and official messes.
The CBI is now examining how Krishanu built such proximity to power, despite having no government role. Investigators are checking whether he helped channel “sewa-paani” payments — an informal term used for regular illegal money collection — for Bhullar and possibly others in the department. His call records and bank details are also being scrutinised for links to individuals across multiple districts.
A resident of Chandigarh, Krishanu was known in sporting circles before stepping into Bhullar’s inner circle. He had represented the Chandigarh hockey team in national tournaments, but left the game several years ago. Friends from that time recall him as “ambitious and well-connected,” someone who blended easily in high-profile company.
The CBI’s findings so far suggest that Krishanu’s role was far more than that of a casual associate. “He wasn’t just delivering messages. He had access, influence, and confidence — the kind only someone with powerful backing could have,” said a senior official.
"The agency is trying to trace the extent of Bhullar’s money network and whether Krishanu acted for others as well", he added.