CBI launches probe into two cases involving lawyers after High Court order

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered two separate cases following directions from the Punjab and Haryana High Court (HC) regarding complaints between a high court advocate and his clients. The cases relate to allegations of bribery, misconduct, and criminal intimidation, and both investigations have been assigned to officers of the CBI’s Anti-Corruption Branch (ACB), Chandigarh.

The developments came after advocate Ankush Dhanerwal and his clients, Balwinder Singh and Ranjit Singh, filed complaints against each other. These cross-complaints include accusations of money demands, threats, and attempts to influence judicial proceedings. The HC, acting on these matters, directed the CBI to investigate both sides of the issue.

Case 1: Bribery and misconduct allegations

In the first case, the High Court, through its order dated August 22, 2025, in CRWP-8343-2025 (Ankush Dhanerwal vs State of Punjab and others), instructed the CBI to examine allegations of misconduct and bribery against advocate Ankush Dhanerwal.

According to the complaint, Dhanerwal allegedly demanded money from his client, Balwinder Singh, a resident of Maidewas village in Punjab, and his son Ranjit Singh. The money was reportedly sought to influence the outcome of a petition concerning panchayat elections pending before the High Court.

The bribe was allegedly requested in the name of a government pleader and a judicial officer, purportedly to ensure a favorable decision for the clients. These allegations raised concerns about potential corruption and misuse of professional authority in the legal process.

Following the HC order, the CBI registered a case under Sections 7 and 7A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (as amended in 2018), read with Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. The investigation has been assigned to Inspector Pawan Kumar of the CBI, ACB, Chandigarh.

CBI officials are tasked with examining the evidence of the alleged demand for money, reviewing communication records, and identifying any potential involvement of other individuals in the case. The investigation also aims to determine whether Dhanerwal acted independently or if there was collusion with any officials to secure the petition’s outcome.

Case 2: Threats and intimidation claims

In a parallel development, the High Court also directed the CBI to investigate complaints filed by advocate Dhanerwal alleging that Balwinder Singh and Ranjit Singh had threatened him and attempted to intimidate him. These complaints alleged that the clients had resorted to criminal intimidation and house trespass to pressure Dhanerwal.

Based on the court order, a second regular case has been registered under Sections 329(3) & (4) (house trespass) and 351(2) & (3) (criminal intimidation), read with Section 3(5) (common intention) of the BNS, 2023. This investigation has been entrusted to Sub-Inspector Manish Kaushik of the CBI, ACB, Chandigarh.

CBI officials are expected to examine the claims of intimidation thoroughly, including any evidence of threats, harassment, or unauthorized entry into property. Witness statements, communication records, and physical evidence from the alleged sites are likely to form a crucial part of the investigation.

Both cases highlight a complex legal dispute involving a high court advocate and his clients. The HC’s intervention demonstrates the court’s serious approach to allegations of bribery and threats, ensuring that both professional misconduct and criminal behavior are investigated independently.

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The dual investigations are also part of the broader effort to maintain integrity in the judicial system and ensure that legal professionals operate within the law. While the first case focuses on alleged financial misconduct by the advocate, the second examines possible criminal intimidation by the clients, ensuring a balanced and impartial probe.

Officials said that the investigations could involve summoning the parties for questioning, reviewing documents and records, and coordinating with other law enforcement agencies if necessary. The CBI’s role as a central investigative agency ensures that these matters are handled with impartiality, transparency, and adherence to legal standards.

The High Court’s directions reflect its proactive role in addressing allegations that could undermine public confidence in the legal system. By ordering separate investigations, the HC aims to protect the rights of both parties while maintaining accountability in the legal profession.

Lawyers and legal experts noted that such cases are relatively rare but underline the importance of strict adherence to ethical practices within the legal field. They emphasized that independent investigations are necessary to establish facts, prevent misuse of legal processes, and ensure justice for all parties involved.

The CBI has already begun collecting evidence and preparing statements from all concerned parties. Both cases are expected to move carefully, given the sensitive nature of allegations involving legal practitioners and clients. Authorities have assured that the investigation will be thorough and impartial, and updates will be shared as significant developments occur.