The special investigation team (SIT) probing the kafir screenshot case has intensified its investigation and issued notices to additional individuals, including DYFI functionaries, to appear for questioning. Notices have been served to DYFI functionary Ribesh Ramakrishnan and two others identified as Manesh and Athul.
Meta Contact and Group Admin Probe
The SIT has also decided to contact Meta again to obtain further details. A decision was made to interrogate the administrators of Left-leaning WhatsApp and social media groups where the screenshot initially surfaced.
The notices to the three individuals were issued based on the statement provided by Jithin Bhasker, who was questioned by the SIT on Saturday. The earlier police investigation concluded that Ramakrishnan had shared the screenshot but could not determine its source.
Origin of the Screenshot
However, the SIT has now discovered that the screenshot first appeared in a WhatsApp group named 'Vadakara Squad', of which Bhasker was a member. Bhasker is one of the administrators of that group. As a continuation of this finding, the three individuals have been summoned for questioning.
Ramakrishnan, Manesh, and Athul have been called in. The investigation team believes that the screenshot was fabricated and widely circulated as part of a deliberate, planned conspiracy. Those who received notices on Sunday will be questioned on Monday.
Background of the Case
The case pertains to the circulation of a fabricated screenshot in the name of MSF leader Mohammed Kasim ahead of the Lok Sabha elections. The screenshot reportedly portrayed LDF candidate Shailaja as a 'kafir' and UDF candidate Shafi Parambil as a 'dini' (pious person), sparking controversy during the poll campaign. Kasim approached the police and later the high court, seeking directives for a speedy and effective investigation into the incident.
