Claims of Sleeper Cells Found Unsubstantiated
According to senior police officials, Pannun had alleged in the video that sleeper cells had placed pro-Khalistan posters in Rohini and Dabri areas. However, teams sent to verify the locations found no such material. The police said the claims appeared to be aimed at spreading fear and misinformation ahead of the national event.
“The assertions made in the video were checked on the ground and were found to be false. The content of the video raises serious concerns related to national security and public order,” a police officer familiar with the investigation said.
Charges Invoked Under Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita
The case has been registered under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), including Section 196 for promoting enmity between groups, Section 197 for imputations prejudicial to national integration, Section 152 for acts endangering the sovereignty and integrity of India, and Section 61 relating to criminal conspiracy.
Police officials stated that the legal provisions were invoked considering the potential impact of the video on public harmony and the timing of the message, which coincided with Republic Day preparations.
Alleged Abuse Against Prime Minister
In addition to the sleeper cell claims, the video allegedly contained abusive and derogatory remarks directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Authorities said such content could not be independently verified by media outlets but was being examined closely as part of the investigation.
Pannun, who is currently based in the United States, has been on the radar of Indian security agencies for issuing repeated threats against Indian institutions and leadership in the past.
Threats Linked to Republic Day समारोह
Officials also pointed out that Pannun had previously announced a reward of USD 111,000 for attempts to disrupt the Republic Day समारोह, including preventing the Prime Minister from hoisting the national flag on January 26. He had also called for acts such as placing Khalistan flags on railway tracks in Punjab.
Indian authorities have consistently termed such calls as terror-linked propaganda and have condemned them strongly at both domestic and international forums.
Security Tightened Across New Delhi
The FIR comes as Delhi Police, along with central armed police forces, has significantly stepped up security arrangements across Kartavya Path and the entire New Delhi district. A multi-layered security grid, including aerial surveillance, ground patrols, and intelligence monitoring, has been deployed.
Officials said online platforms are also being closely watched to detect and neutralise any attempts at misinformation or incitement. “The situation is under control, and all necessary measures are in place to ensure peaceful Republic Day celebrations,” a senior officer said.
