Delhi Police Arrest Two Alleged Pannun-Linked Operatives Over Republic Day Threat Messages

Delhi Police have arrested two suspected sleeper cell operatives allegedly linked to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a US-based figure associated with the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice, over provocative writings found in the capital before Republic Day 2026.
Investigators claim the plot was coordinated from overseas with the aim of creating panic and disturbing public order.
Security agencies say the probe is ongoing, with more suspects under scrutiny.

• What happened: Delhi Police Special Cell arrested two accused, identified as Baljinder and Rohit alias Keerath, over alleged threat messaging linked to Republic Day.

• Why it matters now: Authorities view the incident as a potential attempt to disrupt national celebrations and public safety.

• What changes for people: Security monitoring in major cities may intensify, especially during high-profile national events.

• Who is affected: Residents of Delhi, security agencies, event organisers, and national security officials.

Authorities in New Delhi said the two men were detained after objectionable and provocative messages were discovered at separate locations shortly before Republic Day. Police allege the operation was directed by overseas handlers connected to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has previously been accused in security-related cases by Indian agencies.

Police say conspiracy planned from Canada

Investigators claim the accused were recruited by a close associate of Pannun based in Canada. According to police sources, the suspects were allegedly promised ₹2 lakh to write provocative slogans intended to spread fear and tension.

Officials said Baljinder, described as an ambulance driver in Delhi, and his associate Rohit alias Keerath were tracked through surveillance and intelligence inputs. Authorities believe the instructions were coordinated through foreign contacts.

Mastermind under investigation, teams tracking links

Police stated that a key alleged mastermind from Tilak Nagar left India for Canada days before Republic Day. Investigators say he maintained direct communication with overseas operatives and may have helped organise the activities locally.

Security agencies are now examining whether additional individuals were involved and whether similar attempts were made in other parts of the capital.

FIR registered under Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita provisions

Ahead of the national celebrations, the Delhi Police Special Cell filed a case against Pannun under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, including provisions related to promoting enmity, criminal conspiracy, and acts affecting national unity.

Police are also reviewing a video circulated online in which pro-Khalistan posters were allegedly claimed to have appeared in areas such as Rohini and Dabri. Officials said verification of those claims is still underway.

Security implications and wider context

• Public safety: Authorities often heighten surveillance before major national events to prevent disruptive activities.

• National security: Cross-border coordination allegations highlight challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking online radical networks.

• Governance: Cases linked to banned organisations usually involve coordination between local police and central agencies.

Experts note that investigations involving international links can take longer due to legal and diplomatic processes.

What to watch next

Officials are expected to question the accused further and examine digital evidence to trace funding and communication channels. Additional arrests or notices could follow as agencies expand the probe into alleged overseas connections.