A local CBI court has formally framed charges against suspended Punjab Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Harcharan Singh Bhullar and his associate Krishanu Sharda in a corruption case registered last year. The trial in the matter is scheduled to commence on July 23.
Case Background and Allegations
The First Information Report (FIR) was lodged based on a complaint filed by Akash Batta. According to the complainant, Bhullar, who was serving as the Ropar Range DIG, allegedly demanded an illegal bribe through Sharda, a private intermediary. The bribe was sought to secure favourable treatment in a case registered at the Sirhind police station and to ensure that no coercive actions were taken against Batta's business.
Trap and Arrest
Following the complaint, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) laid a trap. On October 16, 2025, Sharda was apprehended while allegedly accepting Rs 5,00,000 as part of the demanded bribe from the complainant. Bhullar was arrested later that same day. The chargesheet under Section 193 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) was subsequently filed in December.
Legal Arguments and Charges Framed
During the proceedings, the counsels for the accused argued that the CBI lacked the authority to register the case. However, public prosecutor Narender Singh countered, advocating for the framing of charges. After hearing both sides, the CBI Special Judge framed charges against Bhullar and Sharda for offences punishable under Section 61 (2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita read with Sections 7 and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.
Next Steps
The trial is set to begin on July 23. Both accused remain suspended from their positions pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.
