Punjab DIG Arrested in Major Bribery Scandal; CBI Seizes ₹5 Crore Cash

In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested Harcharan Singh Bhullar, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Ropar Range in Punjab, on charges of bribery and corruption. The arrest follows a complaint from a scrap dealer alleging that Bhullar demanded ₹8 lakh to “settle” a case. A subsequent sting operation led to the DIG’s capture and the discovery of substantial illicit assets.

Details of the Sting Operation

The investigation began when Akash Batta, a scrap dealer from Fatehgarh Sahib, reported that Bhullar had threatened to implicate him in a fabricated criminal case unless he paid ₹8 lakh, with an additional ₹5 lakh demanded monthly. Acting on this information, the CBI set up a trap and apprehended Bhullar’s associate, Krishna, while he was accepting the bribe on Bhullar’s behalf. Following this, the CBI raided Bhullar’s office in Mohali, leading to his arrest.

Seizure of Assets

During the raids, the CBI uncovered a staggering ₹5 crore in cash, 1.5 kilograms of gold and jewellery, 22 luxury watches, and keys to high-end vehicles, including an Audi and a Mercedes. Additionally, 40 litres of imported liquor, firearms, and property documents were seized from Bhullar’s premises. Krishna was also found with ₹21 lakh in cash, further implicating him in the corruption network.

Broader Implications

This arrest has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community, raising serious concerns about the extent of corruption within the police force. The discovery of such vast wealth amassed by a senior officer underscores the need for stringent measures to combat corruption and ensure accountability within public institutions.

Conclusion

The arrest of DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar marks a significant step in the fight against corruption in Punjab’s police force. The substantial assets seized during the operation highlight the severity of the allegations and the importance of continued vigilance and reform in law enforcement agencies. As investigations proceed, it is imperative that justice is served, and measures are put in place to prevent such misconduct in the future.