Punjab and Haryana High Court Denies Bail to Suspended DIG HS Bhullar in Corruption Case
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has delivered a significant ruling, holding that the suspension of Punjab DIG HS Bhullar in a graft case does not eliminate the risk of him influencing witnesses and tampering with evidence. This decision came as the court declined bail to Bhullar on February 16, with detailed orders emphasizing the need for caution in such high-profile corruption cases.
Court's Observations on Witness Influence and Investigation Integrity
In the detailed orders, Justice Sumeet Goel of the High Court articulated a firm stance, stating, "It cannot be said that there does not exist a reasonable apprehension or concern that his release may affect the course of investigation or trial, including the possibility of influencing the witnesses." The court further elaborated that a senior police officer like Bhullar, who has held a prominent position in the police hierarchy for decades, is likely to retain professional relationships and institutional familiarity. This, the HC held, could significantly impact witnesses and the overall trajectory of the investigation.
Background of the Case and Bhullar's Arrest
HS Bhullar, a 2009-batch IPS officer, has been incarcerated since October 2025, following his arrest by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with bribery allegations from his office in Chandigarh. At the time of his arrest, Bhullar was serving as the DIG of Ropar Range. The court noted that the grant of bail in a separate disproportionate assets case does not automatically entitle Bhullar to bail in this corruption case, which must be evaluated independently on its own merits.
The bench underscored that in corruption cases involving public servants holding high office, the court is required to exercise heightened caution. This is particularly crucial when material witnesses are yet to be examined and there is a reasonable, prima facie tenable assertion of potential influence. However, the HC granted Bhullar the liberty to apply for regular bail afresh, initially before the special court handling the case.
Bhullar's Bail Plea and Allegations
In his bail plea, Bhullar raised several procedural concerns. He submitted that he was taken into custody at his Mohali office at 11:30 am on October 16, 2025, but his arrest was not formally recorded until 8 pm that same day. The plea contended that he was not produced before a magistrate until after 2 pm the following day, which allegedly exceeded the 24-hour limit mandated by law.
Additionally, the bail plea argued that no money was directly recovered from Bhullar during the investigation. According to the petition, Bhullar, a decorated officer with over 30 years of service who was on the verge of retirement, claimed to be targeted for "ulterior motives." He also pointed out that the CBI filed its final investigation report on December 3, 2025, rendering further custodial interrogation unnecessary. Bhullar approached the high court after a special CBI court in Chandigarh dismissed his initial plea for bail.
Implications of the Court's Decision
This ruling highlights the judiciary's stringent approach in corruption cases involving senior public officials. By denying bail and emphasizing the potential for witness influence, the High Court sends a clear message about the importance of safeguarding the integrity of investigations and trials. The case continues to unfold, with Bhullar retaining the option to pursue bail through the special court as per the court's directive.
