A WhatsApp call recording has blown the lid off a major corruption case involving Punjab DIG (Ropar Range) Harcharan Singh Bhullar, who was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on bribery charges.

According to reports, Bhullar allegedly demanded ₹8 lakh from scrap dealer Akash Bhatta to settle an FIR registered against him. In the incriminating audio clip, Bhullar was heard saying “8 fadne ne 8” — meaning “settle it for ₹8 lakh.” He directed his subordinate, identified as Kirshanu, to collect the amount and “take whatever he gives, but ensure it totals ₹8 lakh.”

The investigation revealed that Bhullar was not only seeking a one-time payoff but had also demanded a monthly ‘service fee’ from the trader to avoid police harassment and interference in his business.