A special CBI Court in Chandigarh on Friday framed charges against suspended Punjab DIG Harcharan Singh Bhullar and his alleged aide Krishanu Sharda in a corruption case registered last year. The court dismissed the discharge applications filed by both accused and ordered the commencement of trial.

The case was registered on the complaint of Akash Batta, who alleged that Bhullar, while posted as DIG, Ropar Range, Punjab Police, had demanded illegal gratification through private intermediary Krishanu Sharda for providing favourable treatment in an FIR registered at Police Station Sirhind and for ensuring that no coercive action was taken against the complainant’s business.

Following the complaint, the CBI laid a trap and apprehended Krishanu Sharda on October 16, 2025, while he was allegedly accepting Rs 5 lakh as part of the demanded bribe from the complainant. Bhullar was arrested on the same day.

The CBI later filed a charge sheet under the provisions of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) in December 2025.

During the hearing on the discharge applications, counsel for the accused argued that the CBI did not have the authority to register the case. However, CBI Public Prosecutor Narender Singh opposed the plea and argued in favour of framing charges.

After hearing the arguments, Special Judge (CBI) framed charges against both accused under Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), read with Sections 7 and 12 of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. The trial in the matter is scheduled to begin on July 23.