Chandigarh: The Chandigarh CBI court on Friday heard a bail petition filed by former Punjab Police Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Harcharan Singh Bhullar, who was arrested in connection with a corruption case. The hearing took place amid arguments over alleged inconsistencies in the Central Bureau of Investigation’s case against the senior police officer.
The proceedings began at 10:30 am and concluded around 12:15 pm. During the hearing, the CBI submitted its response to Bhullar’s bail plea after earlier seeking time from the court to file its reply. At the previous hearing, the special CBI court had directed the agency to place its response on record.
Arguing on behalf of Bhullar, senior advocate SPS Bhullar contended that the CBI’s case lacked essential details, including the specific time, date and place of the alleged offence. He further pointed out discrepancies in the amount of the alleged bribe mentioned in the documents, stating that the figure varied from ₹1 lakh at one stage to ₹4 lakh at another.
The defence also questioned the terminology used by the CBI in its chargesheet, noting that the word “seva paani” was cited in connection with the alleged bribery. The counsel argued that the term could have multiple interpretations and does not necessarily imply a bribe. Additionally, it was submitted that the CBI failed to inform any senior Punjab Police official at the time of Bhullar’s arrest, raising procedural concerns.
This is not the first time Bhullar has sought relief from the courts. Earlier, he had approached the Supreme Court seeking interim protection. However, on December 19, the apex court declined to consider his plea for interim relief, following which his counsel withdrew the petition. Bhullar had moved the Supreme Court after being denied interim relief by the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
The CBI court is expected to take up the matter further after examining the agency’s response and the arguments raised by the defence. The case continues to draw attention due to Bhullar’s senior position in the police force and the questions being raised over the strength of the prosecution’s case.
