Delhi: Delhi Police have taken two men into custody in connection with the defacement of public property with pro-Khalistan slogans ahead of Republic Day, officials confirmed on Thursday. The arrests were made following an investigation into graffiti found at two separate locations in the national capital in the days leading up to January 26.
The accused have been identified as Baljinder, who works as an ambulance driver in Delhi, and his associate Rohit, also known as Kirth. Police allege that both have links to the banned organisation Sikhs for Justice (SFJ).
According to investigators, the duo allegedly acted on instructions originating from Canada. Police claim the operation was directed by SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who is based abroad, with an assurance of financial reward for carrying out the act. Officials said the two men were allegedly promised ₹2 lakh to write slogans aimed at provoking tension and disrupting communal harmony during a sensitive period.
Senior officers stated that the graffiti was deliberately carried out shortly before Republic Day with the intention of drawing attention and creating unease in the city. Preliminary findings suggest that a close associate of Pannun coordinated the plan from Canada and maintained contact with the accused through encrypted messaging platforms.
During interrogation, Baljinder reportedly told police that he agreed to participate after being offered money and logistical assistance, while Rohit is said to have helped with selecting locations and assisting in executing the plan.
Authorities said further investigations are underway to identify and trace other individuals who may be part of the same network. Police are also examining digital evidence to establish the full extent of the alleged conspiracy and its international links.
