Delhi Police Arrests Two SFJ Members for Pro-Khalistan Graffiti Ahead of Republic Day
In a significant development, Delhi Police has apprehended two individuals allegedly associated with the Sikh For Justice (SFJ) outfit for painting pro-Khalistan graffiti in the Rohini area of Northwest Delhi. The arrests were made as part of an investigation into what authorities describe as a deliberate attempt to disrupt communal harmony in the capital city just before Republic Day celebrations.
Details of the Arrest and Allegations
The accused have been identified as Baljinder and Rohit, both residents of Delhi. According to police officials, the duo was allegedly acting under direct instructions from Khalistani separatist and Canada-based SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The vandalism involved painting slogans at two separate locations in Rohini, with the intention of spreading pro-Khalistan messages across the city.
Police revealed that the matter first came to light on January 24, when a school in Rohini reported graffiti on its outer walls. An officer involved in the case stated, "The intention was to disturb communal harmony in the city before Republic Day. The graffiti were pro-Khalistan slogans written on two different areas of the Capital. The accused were allegedly promised Rs 2 lakhs by SFJ for defacing the walls."
Investigation and International Links
Further investigation uncovered that Baljinder was responsible for drawing the graffiti, while Rohit assisted in identifying suitable locations for the act. Both individuals were reportedly recruited and guided through encrypted communication applications by an associate of Pannun based in Canada. This associate, originally from the Tilak Nagar area of West Delhi, fled to Canada a few weeks prior to the incident.
Authorities also noted that a purported video was released by Pannun on January 22, in which he claimed that graffiti supporting SFJ had been painted in Delhi. This video allegedly served as a catalyst for the police to intensify their efforts in tracking down the perpetrators.
Police Efforts and Surveillance
To apprehend the accused, Delhi Police meticulously scanned more than 50 CCTV cameras in the Rohini area. This extensive surveillance operation played a crucial role in identifying and locating Baljinder and Rohit, leading to their subsequent arrest. The police have emphasized that such acts of vandalism are taken very seriously, especially when they threaten national security and communal peace during significant national events like Republic Day.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about foreign-based extremist groups attempting to influence domestic affairs through covert operations. Delhi Police continues to investigate the broader network involved in this incident, focusing on dismantling any further threats to public order and harmony.
