New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has launched a formal investigation against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the self-styled leader of the banned separatist outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), following his latest remarks promoting secession and inciting actions against the Indian state.
The case, registered on August 19, includes serious charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The FIR also names other unidentified individuals who may be connected to the incident.
According to NIA officials, the action stems from a press briefing held on August 10 at the Lahore Press Club in Pakistan, where Pannun appeared via video link from the United States. In his address, Pannun questioned India’s claim over Punjab and reiterated SFJ’s long-standing demand for a separate Khalistan.
What raised alarm across intelligence agencies was Pannun’s public offer of Rs 11 crore to any Sikh personnel in the Indian armed forces who would stop the Prime Minister from hoisting the national flag at the Red Fort on August 15. The statement, which was widely circulated online, is being treated as a direct incitement to mutiny and an attempt to provoke unrest within the armed forces.
The FIR further notes that during the event, Pannun unveiled a controversial new map titled “Delhi Banayga Khalistan”, which fictitiously includes Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi as part of a proposed Khalistani state. Indian authorities have condemned the move as a dangerous act of misinformation and a threat to the country’s territorial integrity.
NIA sources said the agency is investigating the wider network behind Pannun’s operations, including those who facilitated the press event in Pakistan and those amplifying his messages in India.
SFJ was banned by the Indian government in 2019 due to its involvement in subversive activities. Pannun, currently based in the U.S., has since been declared a terrorist under Indian law, yet he continues to issue provocative content from abroad, often leveraging social media and foreign platforms.
Security has been significantly tightened in several states, particularly in the national capital, following Pannun’s statements. Intelligence agencies remain on high alert for any activities inspired by SFJ’s agenda around national holidays or major events.
As of now, no arrests have been made, but officials indicated that summons and further legal action may follow once the identities of co-conspirators are confirmed.
The investigation remains active and is expected to widen in scope in the coming weeks.
