The Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday rejected the regular bail plea of suspended Punjab Police Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Harcharan Singh Bhullar, who is currently confined in Chandigarh Model Jail. The decision marks a significant development in the ongoing legal proceedings against the senior police officer.
Bhullar had approached the High Court on January 9 seeking regular bail. Through his counsel, Nikhil Ghai, he argued that the investigation in the case had already been completed and that the final investigation report was filed on December 3 last year. He told the court that since the probe stood concluded, there was no requirement for further custodial interrogation.
In his petition, Bhullar maintained that the prosecution proposed to examine mainly official witnesses and the complainant. Being under suspension from service, he claimed, removed any reasonable apprehension that he could influence witnesses or tamper with evidence. The defense further submitted that the complainant had already been granted protection as per earlier High Court directions.
Bhullar also contended that the alleged trap operation primarily concerned a co-accused and did not involve any direct acceptance or recovery from him. This argument formed a key part of his plea for bail, as his legal team attempted to distance him from the core allegations.
However, the High Court was not persuaded by these submissions. After hearing the arguments, the court dismissed the bail plea, thereby directing that Bhullar continue to remain in judicial custody at Chandigarh Model Jail.
The ruling reflects the judiciary’s cautious approach in cases involving senior public officials and allegations of serious misconduct. Legal observers note that courts often weigh the gravity of charges and the broader public interest before granting relief in such matters.
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With the bail plea rejected, Bhullar’s legal options remain open, including the possibility of approaching the Supreme Court for further relief. Meanwhile, the trial process is expected to proceed based on the investigation report already filed.