New Delhi: Police have registered an FIR against unknown people after two posters questioning the functioning of the government were found on the Airport Express Line of Delhi Metro. In the messages written on the posters, questions were raised about the changes that have taken place in the country during the last few years. Not only this, but there was also a QR code on the posters, through which people were invited to join an online group. The Special Cell of Delhi Police has also joined the investigation of the case.
Where and when were anti-government posters found?
According to media reports, this matter came to light on October 20. Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) train operator Tarun Chaudhary was on duty on the Airport Express Line. He left for Yashobhoomi station from New Delhi station at around 6:50 pm. During inspection inside the train, he saw two posters stuck on a seat. The train operator removed the poster and informed his senior officers and the Operations Control Centre. After this the posters were handed over to the controller of Dwarka Sector-21 station and the police were informed about the matter.
What was written on the posters?
According to reports, these black and white posters had several messages written in English. These included sentences like “Voting Protest” and “Dissatisfied? You Are Not Alone”. The posters also contained nine claims related to the changes that have taken place in the country in recent years. People were invited to join an online group using a QR code on the posters. Police have seized both the posters and aspects related to their messages and QR codes are being investigated.
Under which sections was it registered then?
Police have registered a case against unidentified people under sections related to damage to public property and metro-related laws. The reports cited the Delhi Prevention of Desecration of Public Property Act, 2007 and the Metro Railways (Operations and Maintenance) Act, 2002.
A special cell of Delhi Police is also involved in the investigation of the case. At present, efforts are being made to identify the person or persons who put up the poster. No arrest or responsibility has been publicly confirmed yet.
Is this case related to the current protests?
This incident has come to light at a time when protests are taking place in Delhi over issues related to the electoral process and alleged vote theft. However, investigation is going on regarding the identity of those who put up the posters and their purpose. Therefore, it would be premature to conclude that the posters were associated with any particular organisation or demonstration.
The content of the posters, QR codes and identity of the people who put them in the metro train will be important aspects in the police investigation.
