The CBI has lodged two FIRs against advocate Ankush Dhanerwal and former clients Balwinder Singh and Ranjit Singh over alleged bribery and intimidation in a 2024 land eligibility dispute and vote recount case.
CBI Files FIRs Against Advocate Ankush Dhanerwal and Clients
The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has recently registered two FIRs against advocate Ankush Dhanerwal, along with his former clients, Balwinder Singh and his son Ranjit Singh. The case revolves around allegations of bribery, intimidation, and fraudulent practices in connection with a land eligibility dispute and a vote recount case that took place in 2024. The total value involved in the alleged bribery exceeds ₹10 lakh.
This case has drawn attention due to the involvement of legal professionals and the alleged manipulation of judicial proceedings. It highlights the CBI’s role in ensuring accountability and transparency within the legal and electoral framework.
Background of the Case
The controversy began with a land eligibility dispute in 2024, when Balwinder Singh, a former sarpanch aspirant from Punjab, faced challenges over his eligibility to contest elections. Seeking legal support, Singh engaged advocate Ankush Dhanerwal, who filed petitions on their behalf in the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
Subsequently, after losing the election to his rival Satnam Singh, Balwinder’s son, Ranjit Singh, sought a vote recount through the local Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) office. Allegations surfaced claiming that Dhanerwal demanded substantial sums, totaling over ₹10 lakh, under the pretext of paying judicial officers and government pleaders to secure favorable court outcomes.
Allegations Against Advocate Ankush Dhanerwal
The FIRs allege that Dhanerwal solicited money from the Singhs, promising legal success in both the eligibility and vote recount cases. The CBI filings claim that Dhanerwal did not appear in court at crucial stages and allegedly failed to represent his clients despite receiving payments. These actions reportedly led to frustration and further legal complications for Balwinder and Ranjit Singh.
In response, Dhanerwal has maintained that he faced threats and intimidation from the clients. He alleged repeated harassment, including armed visits to his residence and confrontations at court premises, leading him to approach authorities with complaints about the Singhs’ behavior.
Court’s Involvement
The Punjab and Haryana High Court intervened due to the serious nature of the allegations. The court directed the CBI to carry out an independent and impartial investigation into the matter. The judicial authorities emphasized that ensuring the integrity of legal processes is vital and that allegations against both the advocate and the clients need thorough examination.
Following the court’s directions, the CBI officially registered two separate FIRs: one against advocate Ankush Dhanerwal for bribery and misconduct, and the other against Balwinder and Ranjit Singh for intimidation and criminal threats.
Current Status
As of now, the investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made. The CBI is collecting evidence, including transaction records, witness statements, and legal documents, to verify the claims made by both sides. This case continues to underline the importance of accountability in legal practice and the necessity for a fair judicial system.
Key Takeaways
- Legal Integrity: The case highlights the need for transparency and ethical conduct within the legal profession.
- Judicial Oversight: Courts play a critical role in directing investigations to ensure impartiality and fairness.
- Role of CBI: The CBI acts as a watchdog in cases involving legal malpractice, bribery, or intimidation.
FAQs
What are the charges against Ankush Dhanerwal?
Advocate Ankush Dhanerwal faces allegations of demanding bribes exceeding ₹10 lakh, failing to appear in court, and attempting to manipulate judicial outcomes.
How did the dispute originate?
The matter began with a land eligibility dispute in Punjab in 2024, followed by a contested vote recount in which legal representation was sought from Ankush Dhanerwal.
Why were Balwinder Singh and Ranjit Singh also implicated?
They were named in a separate FIR for allegedly intimidating and threatening the advocate, including visiting his residence armed and confronting him at the court premises.
Conclusion
The FIRs against advocate Ankush Dhanerwal and his clients demonstrate the judiciary’s vigilance in addressing bribery and intimidation in legal matters. The ongoing CBI investigation will play a crucial role in upholding the integrity of India’s legal and electoral system.
