Delhi Police on February 5, 2026, arrested two individuals allegedly associated with the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) for allegedly painting pro-Khalistan slogans at two locations in the national capital ahead of Republic Day, officials said.
The accused have been identified as Baljinder, an ambulance driver working in Delhi, and his associate Rohit, also known as Kirth. According to the police, the two were involved in defacing public property with graffiti carrying pro-Khalistan messages in an apparent attempt to create tension and disturb public order in the days leading up to January 26.
Police officials alleged that the duo acted on the instructions of Canada-based SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Investigators claim that Pannun promised the accused a sum of ₹2 lakh to carry out the act, with the objective of disrupting communal harmony and creating unrest in the city during the sensitive pre–Republic Day period.
Alleged foreign link behind the graffiti
A senior police officer said the accused painted pro-Khalistan graffiti at two separate locations in Delhi shortly before Republic Day. During the course of the investigation, police found that the alleged conspiracy was hatched outside India. A close associate of Pannun, based in Canada, is believed to have coordinated with the accused, recruited them for the task, and remained in constant touch through encrypted communication platforms to avoid detection.
During interrogation, Baljinder reportedly told the police that he was motivated by the promise of financial reward and logistical support. Rohit, on the other hand, allegedly assisted him by identifying suitable locations and helping execute the plan, officials said.
Police widen probe to trace SFJ network
Police sources added that efforts are underway to identify and apprehend other individuals connected to Pannun and his network, both within the country and abroad. Investigators are also examining digital evidence and communication records to trace the full extent of the alleged conspiracy and determine whether similar acts were planned elsewhere.
