CBI Arrest Shocks Punjab Police: DIG Harcharan Bhullar in Bribery Case
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Punjab Police Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Harcharan Singh Bhullar on charges of bribery. The agency reports that Bhullar was extorting a monthly payment of Rs 5 lakh from a scrap dealer connected to an ongoing investigation, flagging concerns about senior police conduct in the field.
Details of the Case and Arrest
According to CBI briefings, Bhullar and a private individual were taken into custody during coordinated searches at Bhullar’s office, residence, and another location. The raids were conducted to gather documentary and electronic evidence related to the bribe-demand and ongoing proceedings. The DIG was briefly moved to Panchkula in Haryana before being brought back for further questioning.
To preserve impartiality, the raiding team ensured no Punjab Police personnel on deputation were involved in the operation. This step reflects the agency’s emphasis on maintaining independence in sensitive probes involving high-ranking officers.
Background of the Suspect
Bhullar assumed the post of Ropar Range DIG on November 27, 2024, after serving as Patiala Range DIG. He is the son of former Punjab Director General of Police (DGP) Mehal Singh Bhullar. Bhullar’s career path included early service in the Punjab Police Service (PPS) before his induction into the Indian Police Service (IPS), with a 2007 batch seniority. His leadership tenure included helming a Special Investigation Team that questioned Shiromani Akali Dal leader Bikram Singh Majithia in a drug-smuggling case, a move that drew significant political attention at the time.
Political Context and Reactions
The timing of Bhullar’s arrest follows a separate dispute in the Ropar district, illustrating ongoing tensions between local police authorities and other political actors. The incident occurred amid reports of friction between Ropar police and Chandigarh authorities over the arrest of Navneet Chaturvedi, who had claimed to be president of the Janata Party and filed Rajya Sabha nomination papers from Punjab. While Chandigarh Police resisted the arrest, a Ropar court later directed handing him over to Ropar police, highlighting jurisdictional complexities in high-profile cases.
What This Means for Punjab Police
Senior Punjab Police officers have remained publicly silent on the case as investigations unfold. The removal of a DIG from the force for alleged bribery raises questions about internal controls, accountability, and the integrity of operations in high-stakes criminal investigations. Analysts suggest that the case could prompt a broader review of procedures used in sensitive inquiries and the vetting processes for officers working in key regional commands.
Next Steps in the Investigation
The CBI has indicated that the inquiry will continue to examine evidence related to the alleged extortion scheme, including financial records and communications between Bhullar and the private individual. The agency’s approach underscores its commitment to thorough investigations into corruption, regardless of rank or position. The outcome of this case could influence how the Punjab Police, and other state forces, implement anti-corruption measures and safeguard the integrity of ongoing probes.
Broader Implications for Law Enforcement Integrity
Incidents involving senior police officers in bribery or extortion allegations tend to trigger scrutiny of internal oversight mechanisms and the culture within police departments. Experts emphasize the need for independent oversight, transparent inquiry processes, and robust protection for whistleblowers to ensure that law enforcement agencies remain accountable to the public they serve.
Conclusion
The CBI’s arrest of DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar marks a significant development in a high-profile bribery case within Punjab’s police ranks. As the investigation proceeds, observers will be watching for the release of further details and for potential reforms aimed at strengthening integrity across the state’s law enforcement machinery.
