In a significant relief, the Supreme Court has stayed the arrest of Bharat Inder Singh Chahal, media advisor to former Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, who faces charges in a disproportionate assets case. The court issued a notice to the Punjab government regarding Chahal’s anticipatory bail petition and requested a response. As part of the court’s conditions, Chahal must cooperate fully with the investigation and legal proceedings.
Previous Court Orders and Health Concerns Cited
On October 25, a Patiala lower court issued a warrant for Chahal’s arrest. In response, Chahal filed a petition with the Supreme Court, highlighting his age—76 years—and various health conditions, along with his willingness to assist in the investigation.
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Earlier, the Punjab and Haryana High Court had denied him bail, emphasizing that economic crime cases require careful consideration. The court noted that prematurely granting anticipatory bail in such cases could harm the state’s economy and undermine public confidence.
Disproportionate Assets Case: Allegations and Financial Details
The vigilance investigation revealed that between 2017 and 2021, Chahal and his family members reported an income of Rs 7.85 crore. However, the family’s expenditure during this period reportedly reached Rs 31.79 crore, a figure allegedly 305 percent higher than their stated income. The investigation further claims that Chahal accumulated numerous properties in his own name and that of his family members.
Next Steps in the Legal Battle
With the Supreme Court’s notice to the Punjab government and the temporary stay on his arrest, Chahal now awaits the state’s reply. Meanwhile, he remains committed to cooperating with the legal process, which is set to determine the next steps in this high-profile case.
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