Key Highlights:
- The Centre extends the ban on pro-Khalistani Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) by five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
- Decision based on new evidence from National Investigation Agency (NIA) investigations.
- SFJ, led by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, continues to push for a separatist agenda.
Background and Decision:
On Tuesday, the Indian government extended the ban on the pro-Khalistani group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) for another five years. This extension was made under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) based on new evidence obtained during investigations conducted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Key Figures and Actions:
SFJ is a US-based organization led by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who has been declared a ‘designated individual terrorist’ by the Indian government since July 1, 2020. The NIA has registered over half a dozen cases against both the SFJ and Pannun. Last year, the NIA also seized properties belonging to Pannun in Punjab and Chandigarh.
Previous Bans and Activities:
The Centre initially banned SFJ in July 2019 due to its open support for the Khalistan movement, which challenges the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. SFJ has been actively promoting the idea of a separate Sikh state and organizing activities like the Sikh Referendum to advance its separatist agenda.
Government’s Stance:
The extension of the ban underscores the government’s continued vigilance and proactive measures to curb separatist movements that threaten national security. The NIA’s ongoing investigations and actions against SFJ and its leaders highlight the seriousness with which the Indian government views the threat posed by such organizations.
Conclusion:
By extending the ban on SFJ, the Centre aims to prevent any activities that could destabilize the country’s unity and integrity. The government’s firm stance against pro-Khalistani elements reaffirms its commitment to maintaining national security and addressing any separatist threats decisively.
Leave a Reply