News Brief
Arjun Brij
Jan 23, 2025, 03:10 PM | Updated 03:10 PM IST
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Days before Republic Day, several schools across Delhi reportedly received threatening emails allegedly from the banned Khalistani terrorist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ).
The emails urged schools to suspend participation in Republic Day celebrations, citing safety concerns and protests against the Indian Constitution.
In the email, described as a “direct and urgent directive,” the group allegedly stated, “SFJ is taking decisive action to prevent President Murmu from unfurling the Tiranga as a protest against the Indian Constitution, which erases identity and perpetuates systemic oppression.”
The email further warned of “the high risk of violence and state retaliation,” instructing schools to keep students and staff away from Republic Day events.
It read, “Ensure families are informed to keep their children at home on January 26. Participation in Republic Day events poses a grave threat to the safety of students and staff. It is your responsibility to prioritise their well-being on symbolic involvement in state-sponsored celebrations. Delhi has been warned. Stay Home, Stay Safe.”
Delhi Police have launched an investigation into the matter and are verifying the authenticity of the emails.
A senior police officer stated, “We are on high alert for any potential disturbances surrounding Republic Day festivities.”
This incident comes shortly after Delhi Police apprehended a 16-year-old student earlier this month for allegedly being part of a group that sent bomb threat emails to multiple schools.
Special Commissioner of Police (Law and Order) Madhup Tewari revealed on 14 January, “From February 12 last year, a series of mails were sent to various schools. The juvenile had sent around 400 mails and was involved in the case wherein 250 schools received the mail on the same day in May. The motive is unclear as mails were also sent on days when there was no examination in the schools.”
Delhi schools have been advised to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to ensure safety during the Republic Day celebrations.
Arjun Brij is an Editorial Associate at Swarajya. He tweets at @arjun_brij