Punjab govt suspends DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar, cites AIS rules

“In pursuance of the said Rule, Harcharan Singh Bhullar, IPS is hereby deemed to be suspended with effect from 16.10.2025, as 48 hours have lapsed since his arrest,” read the order.

Copies of the suspension order have been forwarded to the Union Home Ministry, Chief Secretary, and DGP’s office for coordinated action, with Bhullar to be informed through proper channels.

An FIR has been registered under Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 and Sections 7 and 7A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 against Bhullar based on a complaint lodged by a Fatehgarh Sahib-based scrap dealer, who accused the 2009-batch IPS officer of demanding recurring monthly payment for “settling” a 2023 FIR against his firm. The CBI laid a trap and caught Bhullar red-handed accepting Rs 5 lakh through a middleman, identified as Krishanu Sharda, who was also arrested. The officer has reportedly denied the charges, claiming he is being framed in a conspiracy.

Raids conducted by the CBI at Bhullar’s official residence in Chandigarh and other locations uncovered staggering assets, including approximately Rs 7.5 crore in unaccounted cash stacked in beds, bags, suitcases and cupboards, 2.5 kg of gold jewellery, 22 luxury watches, keys to high-end vehicles such as Mercedes and an Audi, foreign liquor, firearms, and documents for over 50 properties worth crores. CBI probe points to a pattern of alleged extortion from local businessmen, including monthly “protection” payments.

Bhullar was appointed the DIG (Ropar Range) in November 2024. The Ropar Range comprises Mohali, Rupnagar and Fatehgarh Sahib districts. Bhullar is the son of former Punjab director general of police M S Bhullar.