Mohali, October 16, 2025 — In a shocking development, Punjab IPS officer Harcharan Singh Bhullar, serving as Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Ropar range, was apprehended by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for allegedly accepting recurring bribes from a businessman in Fatehgarh Sahib. The arrest came after a meticulously planned trap in Bhullar’s Mohali office, during which he was caught red-handed accepting ₹8 lakh, part of an ongoing “monthly” extortion scheme, officials said.

Cash and Assets Seized

The CBI shared visuals of the seizure, which revealed bags of cash, jewellery, and an extensive collection of luxury items. As of Thursday evening, the seized cash reportedly exceeded ₹5 crore. The haul also included approximately 1.5 kg of gold and diamond jewellery, documents relating to immovable properties across Punjab, keys to two high-end vehicles — a Mercedes and an Audi — and 22 luxury watches.

In addition, authorities recovered locker keys and 40 litres of imported liquor. Firearms confiscated during the operation included a double-barreled gun, a pistol, a revolver, and an airgun, along with ammunition, highlighting the scale of assets accumulated by the senior officer.

Allegations in the FIR

The FIR lodged following the complaint outlines the alleged modus operandi of DIG Bhullar. The case originated from a complaint by Akash Batta, a scrap businessman from Fatehgarh Sahib, who claimed that Bhullar, through his aide Kirshanu, demanded recurring bribes to “settle” FIR No. 155/2023 and prevent further police action against Batta’s scrap business.

During verification on October 11, 2025, CBI officials intercepted a recorded WhatsApp call in which Kirshanu communicated with Bhullar. In the conversation, Bhullar allegedly instructed the aide, “‘8 fadne ne 8’ and then ‘Jinna denda nal nal fadi chal, ohnu kehde 8 kar de pura’,” directing collection of ₹8 lakh from the complainant or whatever payment could be secured at the time.

The FIR further notes statements by Kirshanu indicating that Bhullar expected a “monthly” bribe: “Edda kehna pata ki hai… kehnda hai August da ni aaya, September da ni aaya,” suggesting the extortion was ongoing and regular. The mobile number used in the call was verified as registered to DIG Bhullar, lending credibility to the complaint.

Profile of Harcharan Singh Bhullar

Harcharan Singh Bhullar joined as DIG of Ropar range on November 27, 2024. Prior to this posting, he served as DIG of Patiala range. He is the son of former Punjab DGP Mehal Singh Bhullar and has largely maintained a low public profile despite holding senior positions.

Bhullar played a prominent role in the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP)-led Punjab government’s anti-drug campaign. Notably, he headed the Punjab Police special investigation team that questioned Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia in connection with drug smuggling charges.

CBI Action and Investigation

The CBI laid a trap based on the complaint, catching Bhullar in his office with cash in hand. Officials said the seizure represents only a portion of the wealth allegedly accumulated through illicit means. Further investigations are underway, including accounting for the seized cash, verification of immovable properties, and establishing a full record of luxury items, liquor, and firearms in his possession.

The arrest and seizure have sent ripples across Punjab, given Bhullar’s high rank and prior involvement in high-profile investigations. The probe highlights concerns over alleged corruption at senior levels of the state police and underscores the role of vigilance and citizen complaints in triggering accountability.

Implications

This case points to a broader concern regarding systemic corruption within law enforcement, particularly the exploitation of authority for financial gain. While Bhullar’s family background in policing and his previous high-profile roles lent him influence, the CBI action demonstrates that even senior officers can be held accountable for alleged misconduct.

Authorities are continuing to assess the extent of Bhullar’s network, financial dealings, and any other parties who may have facilitated or benefited from the bribes. The probe will likely involve forensic examination of digital communications, bank records, and property documents.

Conclusion

The arrest of DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar has exposed a pattern of alleged corruption and extortion at a senior level in the Punjab Police. With over ₹5 crore in cash, 1.5 kg of jewellery, luxury vehicles, watches, firearms, and other high-value items seized, the case is one of the most significant anti-corruption actions against a serving IPS officer in the state in recent years. The investigation by CBI continues, with authorities committed to uncovering the full extent of the officer’s illicit activities.