The bribery case involving suspended Punjab Police DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar has entered a another phase, with the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) expanding its probe and strong indications that senior IAS and IPS officers could soon come under questioning.
October 16, 2025 – Trap and Arrest
The case began with a CBI trap in Chandigarh, where middleman Krishanu Sharda was arrested while allegedly collecting ₹8 lakh from scrap dealer Akash Batta. The bribe was linked to settling a 2023 FIR and ensuring business protection.
Post-arrest seizures
Raids at Bhullar’s residence and farmhouse reportedly led to massive recoveries, including over ₹7.5 crore in cash, around 2.5 kg gold, 26 luxury watches, and documents linked to more than 50 properties—significantly intensifying the case.
Late 2025 – network under scanner
Digital evidence seized from Sharda allegedly revealed links with nearly 50 officials. Investigators began analysing call records, financial trails, and communication exchanges to map a broader network.
February 2026 – Prosecution Sanction
The Ministry of Home Affairs granted sanction for prosecution, clearing the way for trial proceedings against Bhullar.
March 13, 2026 – Court Takes Cognisance
A special CBI court took cognisance of the bribery case, marking a key procedural step towards framing of charges.
April 10, 2026 – Supreme Court Relief Limited
The Supreme Court of India declined to entertain Bhullar’s bail plea but allowed him to approach the Punjab and Haryana High Court again if the trial does not begin within two months.
April 23, 2026 – Fresh CBI Push
The CBI sought additional documents and electronic devices in connection with a preliminary enquiry against unknown persons, a move being opposed by Bhullar’s legal team as politically motivated.Current status of Bhullar
As of April 2026, Bhullar remains in judicial custody following multiple legal setbacks in securing bail. Investigative agencies have opposed relief, citing the gravity of allegations and the ongoing expansion of the probe.
In addition to the primary bribery case, Bhullar is also facing a disproportionate assets case registered by both the CBI and the Punjab Vigilance Bureau, further complicating his legal position.
Sources indicate that the CBI is now correlating witness statements with financial and digital evidence. At this stage, names of certain IAS and IPS officers have reportedly surfaced during the investigation into the alleged network linked to Krishanu Sharda.
The agency is examining decision-making processes, file movements, and possible influence in administrative matters, including transfers and FIR handling. This groundwork is seen as a precursor to potential summons.
With Assembly elections approaching, the case has taken on added significance. Any move to question senior officers could have far-reaching administrative and political implications.
The DIG Bhullar case, which began as a trap operation, has now evolved into a wide-ranging probe into alleged corruption networks. With Bhullar still in custody, Sharda’s central role established, and new leads emerging, the coming weeks are expected to be critical in determining how far the investigation reaches.
