'Boycott elections' graffiti come up on DU walls; FIRs filed
What's the story
Two First Information Reports (FIRs) were lodged following the discovery of graffiti advocating for an election boycott on Delhi University walls.
The graffiti, which surfaced on Thursday, appeared just two days before the phase six of Lok Sabha elections scheduled for Saturday, May 25.
The slogans included phrases such as "Boycott elections, join new democracy," and another in Hindi that translates to "Boycott the election."
Threat emails
Bomb threat hoaxes target Delhi University colleges
On the same day as the graffiti incident, at least 14 colleges affiliated with DU received bomb threat emails.
The institutions targeted included Hindu College, St. Stephen's College, Lady Shri Ram College, Kirori Mal College, Hansraj College, Miranda House, and Indraprastha College for Women.
After a thorough police inspection of these premises, all threats were confirmed as hoaxes.
Twitter Post
Graffiti on walls in Delhi University area
'Boycott elections' graffiti found written on the walls in Delhi University area. Two FIRs registered under Prevention of Defacement of Property Act and investigation has been initated: Delhi Police (23/05) pic.twitter.com/77vMY9JmTw
— ANI (@ANI) May 23, 2024
Police response
Delhi Police confirm bomb threats as hoaxes
A police official familiar with the situation stated that most colleges were closed due to a gazetted holiday.
Some administrative staff present at the time reported the threat emails to their respective principals and subsequently to the police.
"They saw the threat email and reported it to the principals and further to the police. They were safely evacuated," said the officer, confirming that all threats were false.
Election preparations
Security strengthened ahead of Lok Sabha elections
As Delhi prepares for the Lok Sabha elections on May 25, security measures have been increased across the national capital.
Polling will occur across all constituencies from 7:00am to 6:00pm.
Authorities have also prepared polling stations across Delhi in response to a heatwave warning issued by the India Meteorological Department.
The elections will primarily see a contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, comprising the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).