Mohali Court Grants Bail to Businessman in Majithia Vigilance Case
A Mohali court has granted regular bail to Jalandhar-based businessman Harpreet Singh Gulati in a high-profile corruption case registered by the Punjab Vigilance Bureau. The case involves allegations of disproportionate assets against former minister Bikram Singh Majithia.
Court's Rationale for Granting Bail
Additional Sessions Judge Hardip Singh approved Gulati's bail application, citing several key factors. The court noted that the investigation against the businessman was complete, the chargesheet had already been filed, and the conclusion of the trial would require considerable time. The judge observed that no useful purpose would be served by keeping the 53-year-old businessman in further custody, especially considering his cooperation with authorities.
Background of the Case
Harpreet Singh Gulati was arrested on November 29, 2025, the same day he was formally nominated as an accused in the vigilance case. This development marked a significant shift in his legal status, as he had previously been cited as a prosecution witness in the main chargesheet filed against Bikram Singh Majithia on August 22, 2025.
Defense and Prosecution Arguments
The defense team argued vigorously for Gulati's release, presenting several compelling points:
- Gulati had cooperated fully with the Vigilance Bureau investigation
- He submitted all requested documents to authorities
- He was falsely implicated after refusing to give a statement under pressure
- The alleged pressure involved claims that Majithia had asked him to manage illicit funds
In contrast, the prosecution presented a different narrative, describing Gulati as a "core conspirator and financial conduit" in the alleged scheme. According to prosecution claims, Gulati routed over 10 crore rupees to entities linked to Majithia between 2008 and 2014. This included pre-licence transfers of approximately 1.15 crore rupees to S.D. Beverages Pvt. Ltd.
Bail Conditions Imposed by the Court
The court granted bail with specific conditions to ensure compliance with legal proceedings:
- Personal bond of 1 lakh rupees with one surety of the same amount
- Surrender of passport to authorities
- No leaving India without prior court permission
- No tampering with evidence or influencing witnesses
- Mandatory appearance on all scheduled court dates
Broader Legal Context
This bail order comes just days after the Supreme Court granted bail to the main accused, Bikram Singh Majithia, on February 2, 2026. The timing highlights the ongoing legal developments in this high-profile case that has captured significant public attention. The trial continues to proceed through the judicial system, with both major figures now released on bail as legal proceedings advance.
The case represents a significant chapter in Punjab's vigilance investigations, involving allegations of financial irregularities spanning several years. The court's decision to grant bail reflects careful consideration of investigation progress, trial timelines, and individual circumstances while maintaining conditions to ensure continued participation in legal proceedings.
