The FIR was registered based on a complaint by Pankaj Dogra and Yogesh Khanna of the Ludhiana Old Cricket Players’ Association. They alleged that funds meant for cricket development were mishandled by LDCA officials. The FIR reportedly refers to findings by the DC’s office, indicating irregularities in how the association handled its finances and operations. However, the complaint does not mention exact figures or provide details about individual responsibilities.

In court, the defence argued that the FIR was politically motivated. They claimed that the case had already been withdrawn from the Punjab and Haryana High Court by one of the complainants, yet it was being used to target the accused during the election period. Bhalla has also maintained that the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) is targeting him simply because of his proximity to Ashu.

The Congress party has strongly reacted to the timing of the FIR, alleging that AAP leaders are using it to damage Ashu’s campaign. According to Congress leaders, the accusations and legal proceedings are part of a larger plan to disrupt the party’s election strategy.

Political tension has further intensified with this development, especially as the court has now restrained any arrests while investigations continue to identify those responsible and determine the extent of any financial wrongdoing.