Key Facts
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the 'Kafir' screenshot case in Kerala has widened its investigation to include two additional WhatsApp groups: 'Kadathanadu Sakhakkal' and 'Bavuppara Sakhakkal'. This expansion follows the interrogation of administrators of the 'Vadakara Squad' group, who provided fresh leads.
Details of the Probe
According to sources, details about the new groups emerged during questioning of Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI) leader Ribesh Ramakrishnan and other witnesses, including Manish and Amal. They reportedly told investigators that the controversial screenshot was received through the Vadakara Squad group. Jithin Bhaskar, a DYFI Vadakara Block Committee member and admin of that group, had earlier been questioned by the SIT.
The police are currently awaiting forensic reports to establish the source and circulation of the screenshot, which contained communal content and surfaced during the 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign in the Vadakara Assembly constituency. It was allegedly circulated against United Democratic Front (UDF) candidate Shafi Parambil. Initially, Muslim Youth League activist Mohammed Kasim was named as an accused.
Background of the Case
The investigation was reopened after the Kerala High Court intervened, leading to the formation of the SIT by the state government. Earlier, the police had submitted a report stating difficulty in tracing the source from which Ramakrishnan received the screenshot. The police later concluded that Ramakrishnan was the first known person to share it.
DYFI's Allegations and Police Response
The DYFI leadership has protested against the SIT, alleging that the investigation is being used to corner its activists. DYFI district secretary L.G. Lijeesh claimed that members of the Vadakara squad group are being repeatedly summoned and intimidated. He also alleged that fake information is being passed to media as statements from those interrogated, and warned of stronger protests, accusing police of acting under pressure from the UDF and Indian Youth Congress.
Police officers associated with the probe dismissed these allegations, stating they are unfazed by attempts to divert the investigation. They asserted that forensic reports will determine the merit of the final investigation report.
FAQ
What is the 'Kafir' screenshot case in Kerala?
It involves a screenshot containing communal content allegedly circulated against UDF candidate Shafi Parambil during the 2024 Lok Sabha election campaign in Vadakara.
Which WhatsApp groups are now under SIT scrutiny?
The SIT is focusing on 'Kadathanadu Sakhakkal' and 'Bavuppara Sakhakkal' groups after leads from Vadakara Squad group admins.
Who was initially named as accused in the case?
Muslim Youth League activist Mohammed Kasim was initially named as an accused.
What is the DYFI's allegation against the SIT?
DYFI alleges the investigation is being used to target its activists and that fake information is being leaked to media.
Source: www.thehindu.com