Punjab Deputy Inspector General Harcharan Singh Bhullar has approached the Punjab and Haryana High Court seeking regular bail in a corruption case, arguing that his continued detention is no longer justified as the investigation has already been completed. Bhullar, who is currently lodged in Chandigarh Model Jail, stated in his petition that the final investigation report was filed on December 3 last year, leaving no requirement for further custodial interrogation.
Through his counsel, advocate Nikhil Ghai, Bhullar told the court that the prosecution plans to rely largely on official witnesses and the complainant. Since all the accused officers have been suspended from service, the defence maintained that there is no realistic risk of influencing witnesses or tampering with evidence. The petition also noted that the complainant has been given security cover under High Court orders, further reducing any apprehension of interference.
The bail plea pointed out that the alleged trap operation involved the co-accused and did not result in any direct recovery from Bhullar. This, the defence argued, significantly weakens the case against the senior officer. It was also submitted that Bhullar was produced before a magistrate after more than 24 hours of being taken into custody, which raises serious questions about procedural fairness and legality.
Bhullar has remained in judicial custody since October 17, 2025. His legal team highlighted that the offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act carries a maximum sentence of seven years, and he has already undergone a substantial period of incarceration. According to the petition, keeping him behind bars at this stage would amount to punitive detention before trial, which goes against settled principles of law governing bail.
The defence further assured the court that Bhullar is ready to follow any condition imposed, including appearing before the court on every date, refraining from contacting witnesses, and surrendering his passport if directed. The High Court is now expected to consider the plea and decide whether the circumstances justify granting regular bail to the senior police officer.