New Delhi, January 24, 2026 : The Delhi Police Special Cell has registered a criminal case against pro-Khalistani figure Gurpatwant Singh Pannun over alleged threats to disrupt public order in the national capital ahead of Republic Day celebrations, officials said on Friday.
The action follows the circulation of a video message on social media in which Pannun is accused of making statements that authorities say could incite unrest and create fear among the public at a time of heightened security. Police officials stated that the content of the video was assessed as provocative in nature, particularly given the extensive security arrangements already in place for January 26.
Pannun, who is associated with the banned organisation Sikhs for Justice, has previously been designated a terrorist by the Union Home Ministry under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. In the latest video, he reportedly claimed that individuals described as his “sleeper cells” had pasted pro-Khalistan posters in certain parts of Delhi, including Rohini in the northwest and Dabri in the southwest, as part of an alleged plan to foment unrest.
Senior police officers said multiple teams from the Special Cell, along with local police units, carried out verification drives and searches in the areas mentioned. However, no posters or related material were recovered during these operations. Officials added that the claims made in the video regarding such activities have not been substantiated so far.
According to police, the first information report has been registered under several provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sections dealing with promoting enmity between groups, acts prejudicial to national integration, endangering the sovereignty and integrity of India, and criminal conspiracy.
Authorities said the investigation is ongoing to determine the intent, reach and potential impact of the video message. Further legal action will be considered based on the findings of the probe.
Meanwhile, security agencies have intensified surveillance and preventive measures across Delhi in view of Republic Day, reiterating that any attempt to disturb peace or law and order will be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.
