Harcharan Singh Bhullar case: A Special CBI Court in Chandigarh on Friday framed charges against suspended Punjab Police DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar and his co-accused Krishanu Sharda in a bribery case registered last year. The court dismissed applications filed by both accused seeking to be discharged from the case, paving the way for the trial to proceed.

Bribery allegation linked to Sirhind police case

According to the CBI, the case was registered on the complaint of Akash Batta. The complainant alleged that Bhullar, who was serving as the DIG of the Ropar Range at the time, demanded an illegal bribe through his alleged middleman, Krishanu Sharda.

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The money was allegedly sought in return for extending favourable treatment in an FIR registered at Sirhind Police Station and ensuring that no strict action was taken against the complainant's business.

CBI trap led to arrests

Following the complaint, the CBI laid a trap. On October 16, 2025, Krishanu Sharda was allegedly caught while accepting Rs 5 lakh, said to be part of the demanded bribe.

Bhullar was arrested on the same day. The investigating agency later filed its charge sheet in December 2025 under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).

Court finds sufficient grounds to proceed

During the hearing, the defence argued that the CBI did not have the legal authority to register the case. However, CBI counsel Narinder Singh opposed the plea and argued that sufficient material was available to frame charges.

After considering submissions from both sides, the Special CBI Judge rejected the defence arguments and framed charges against both accused under Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and Sections 7 and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988.

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With the charges now formally framed, the court has fixed July 23 as the date for the commencement of the trial. The prosecution is expected to begin leading evidence once the trial opens.