Vadakara (Kozhikode): The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has fast-tracked its probe into the highly controversial 'Kafir' screenshot case from the previous Lok Sabha elections, holding its inaugural meeting on Friday.

According to available details, the SIT will soon interrogate DYFI leader Ribesh Ramakrishnan, who had allegedly posted the controversial message in the 'Red Encounter' social media group. The previous police investigation had ground to a halt after reaching Ribesh, failing to progress any further.

Along with Ribesh, the team will also record the statement of Muhammed Kasim, who was initially accused in the case. However, Rural SP T Farash noted that tracing the original source of the screenshot remains an extremely challenging task, primarily because the comprehensive results of the scientific forensic examination of the mobile phones are still pending. As the special team takes over, the entire political landscape of Kerala is closely watching to see who created the message.

The CPM had initially alleged that the UDF was behind the communal screenshot, while the UDF counter-argued that the investigation stalled precisely because it began pointing towards CPM affiliates, proving that the ruling party manufactured the controversy. The true origin of the message is bound to trigger a fresh political storm regardless of which faction it implicates. Consequently, securing the forensic analysis of the involved phones and retrieving data from Meta will be the first major tasks for the newly formed SIT.

Interestingly, while the CPM is the original complainant and the Muslim League-led UDF stands accused, the UDF has openly declared they have nothing to fear, especially since they pushed for a continued investigation. Kuttiadi MLA and Muslim League State Secretary Parakkal Abdullah has been leading the legal battle, even submitting a memorandum to the Home Minister for a reinvestigation following the change in government.

The controversy dates back to the eve of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections when a screenshot containing a derogatory 'kafir' remark was widely circulated against LDF candidate K K Shailaja in the Vadakara constituency. It was spread as a screenshot of a post allegedly made by MSF leader Muhammad Kasim.

While LDF leaders initially weaponised this against the UDF and filed a police complaint, the case took a dramatic turn when Kasim approached the High Court claiming the image was forged. The police eventually admitted to the court that there was no evidence proving Kasim sent the message. Subsequent tracking revealed the screenshot was circulated via pro-CPM social media networks, leading to the current focus on Ribesh Ramakrishnan.