Daijiworld Media Network - Ramanagara
Ramanagara, Mar 20: Police have arrested two individuals in connection with pro-Pakistan graffiti found on the walls of the Toyota Boshoku Automotive India Company factory near Bidadi town in Ramanagara district.
The arrested individuals, identified as 24-year-old Haimad Hussain and 20-year-old Sadiq, were employed as contract workers at the factory and hail from northern Karnataka.
The graffiti, written in Kannada using green paint, contained slogans in support of Pakistan and derogatory remarks against Karnataka residents. The incident came to light on March 16 during the first shift at the factory, which employs over 2,000 workers in three shifts.
As news of the incident spread, thousands of employees and Kannada activists gathered outside the factory, demanding strict action. Protesters alleged that a similar case had been suppressed the previous year and called for the immediate dismissal and deportation of the accused.
The company issued a circular condemning the act, warning that such actions could lead to legal consequences under sedition laws. It also emphasized the importance of workplace harmony and assured that legal proceedings had been initiated.
Following a complaint from the company’s HR department, the Bidadi police registered an FIR and launched an investigation. Using handwriting analysis, CCTV footage, and the interrogation of hundreds of employees, the police identified and arrested the two suspects.
Haimad Hussain and Sadiq have been booked under Section 67 of the IT Act and Sections 193 and 356 of the BNS Act. Further investigation is underway.
The issue was also raised in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly, where Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka criticized the government’s handling of the case.
“‘Slogans of ‘Pakistan Zindabad’ were written in four different locations inside the Toyota factory. The company has filed a police complaint, yet no strict action has been taken,” Ashoka alleged.
He further questioned the government’s inaction, stating, “Toyota is an international company with surveillance cameras everywhere. Despite this, the culprits were able to carry out such an act. What interests is this government protecting?”
The police have assured that a detailed investigation will be conducted to determine if any further involvement or motives were behind the incident.