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NEW DELHI, February 22, 2024 – Delhi Police arrested two men Thursday in connection with pro-Khalistan graffiti discovered in the capital city ahead of Republic Day on January 26, raising questions about potential foreign interference in domestic affairs. It’s a situation that feels ripped from a political thriller, but the implications are very real.
Pro-Khalistan Graffiti: Canada Connection Revealed
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Authorities allege the vandalism was orchestrated from Canada and linked to a prominent figure in the Sikh separatist movement.
- Baljinder and Rohit were arrested for allegedly defacing public property with pro-Khalistan slogans.
- The operation was allegedly funded and directed from Canada, with ties to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun of Sikhs for Justice.
- The timing of the incident,just before Republic Day,is considered notably sensitive.
- The incident is highly likely to further strain India-Canada relations.
What exactly prompted this act of vandalism, and what does it signify for India’s security landscape? According to police, the two arrested men, Baljinder and Rohit, were allegedly contracted to deface public property with pro-Khalistan slogans. The operation, they claim, was funded and directed from Canada.
Alleged Mastermind’s Role
A senior police officer stated that the alleged mastermind, a resident of tilak Nagar in west Delhi, journeyed to Canada several days before January 26. While abroad, this individual reportedly remained in “direct contact” with Gurpatwant Singh pannun, the founder of Sikhs for Justice, throughout the planning and execution of the graffiti campaign. The accused were promised a payment of Rs 2 lakh (approximately $2,400 USD) for their involvement.
Police have not released further details regarding the specific locations where the graffiti was found, nor the exact wording of the slogans. However,the investigation is ongoing,and authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the network involved.
Sikhs for Justice and Gurpatwant Singh Pannun
Sikhs for Justice is an organization that advocates for a separate Sikh state, known as Khalistan. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, its founder, is a controversial figure who has been designated as a terrorist by India. He currently resides in Canada and continues to be a vocal proponent of the Khalistan movement.
this incident adds another layer to the already complex relationship between India and Canada.In recent years, tensions have risen over allegations of Canadian support for Sikh separatists, a claim Canada has consistently denied. The current investigation is highly likely to further strain those relations.
The arrests come as India prepares for heightened security measures ahead of Republic Day celebrations. authorities are on alert for potential threats from various extremist groups, both domestic and foreign.
Further investigation is underway to determine the full scope of the conspiracy and identify any additional individuals involved. The police are committed to ensuring the safety and security of the nation, especially during this critical period.
What are the potential ramifications of this incident for India-Canada relations? The investigation is ongoing, and the full picture remains to be seen.