Saturday, March 29, 2025
DIG Bhullar Arrested in Bribery Case: Father Was Punjab DGP, Brother a Former MLA — How Influential Is He?
Chandigarh | Thursday, October 16, 2025 – 3:49 PM
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on Thursday arrested Harcharan Singh Bhullar, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Punjab Police (Ropar Range), on charges of accepting a bribe of ₹5 lakh. His arrest has created a stir in the state’s administrative and police circles.
According to reports, a scrap dealer from Mandi Gobindgarh had filed a complaint with the CBI alleging that Bhullar demanded a bribe. Acting on this complaint, the CBI’s Chandigarh unit launched an investigation and arrested the officer red-handed in Mohali while accepting the money.
DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar comes from one of Punjab’s most influential police and political families. His father, Mahal Singh Bhullar, served as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Punjab, and was known for his role in anti-terrorism operations during the 1980s and 1990s. Bhullar’s younger brother, Kuldeep Singh Bhullar, is a former Congress MLA.
Harcharan Singh Bhullar himself, a 2007-batch Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has held several key positions in the Punjab Police. Known for his strict work ethic and integrity, he has led multiple high-profile operations against drug mafias, organized crime networks, and public safety threats. His reputation as a disciplined and fair officer made his arrest particularly shocking to many within the department.
Bhullar’s arrest has raised serious concerns about corruption within the police force. An officer once considered a symbol of honesty and discipline is now facing allegations of bribery, shaking the department’s credibility. However, officials have urged caution, stating that conclusions should not be drawn until the CBI’s investigation is complete. Sources say the agency is conducting an in-depth probe, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
Reacting to the arrest, Baltej Pannu, spokesperson for the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) in Punjab, said the matter directly concerns corruption. He emphasized that the CBI was carrying out a full investigation based on credible information, adding that “corruption will not be tolerated at any cost.”
Harcharan Singh Bhullar’s arrest marks one of the most high-profile corruption cases in recent times involving a senior Punjab Police officer. With his strong family legacy—one rooted in law enforcement and politics—the case has drawn wide public and media attention. The outcome of the ongoing CBI investigation will likely determine the long-term impact on both Bhullar’s career and the state’s policing reputation.
