Edmonton/Ottawa (Rajeev Sharma): Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the leader of the banned organisation Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has announced plans to provide financial support to the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) for protests directed against the Narendra Modi-led government in India. The announcement was reportedly made during a Khalistan-related referendum event in Edmonton, Canada.
Addressing a gathering of Khalistan supporters, Pannun described the proposed funding as part of a broader strategy he characterised as “fifth-generation warfare”. He indicated that SFJ would support CJP-led demonstrations and movements opposing the Indian government.
The remarks have drawn attention to the group’s stated plans to extend its campaign beyond overseas gatherings and support protest activities within India.
Calls for political and economic pressure on India
During his address, Pannun spoke about efforts to challenge the Indian government through economic pressure and political mobilisation. He claimed that India was facing a threat to its economic standing and called for further action against the country.
He also linked Punjab’s challenges, including drug abuse and concerns affecting farmers and young people, to the demand for an independent Khalistan. His speech included slogans opposing Hindi, Hindutva and the Indian state, alongside criticism of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Pannun further referred to a proposed “Sikh Homeland Security” force and advocated weapons training for Sikh youth, according to the account of his remarks. The statements raise concerns about the nature of the group’s messaging and its calls for mobilisation among supporters.
Pannun’s background and India’s position
Pannun, who has roots in Khankot village near Amritsar in Punjab, leads SFJ, an organisation advocating a separate Khalistan state. The Government of India has designated him a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Indian authorities have accused him of involvement in activities directed against the country, including alleged efforts to incite violence. Pannun has continued to campaign for Khalistan from abroad.
His latest reported remarks place renewed focus on SFJ’s activities in Canada and its efforts to promote separatist demands through overseas events and proposed political campaigns. The announcement concerning CJP funding represents a stated intention; the available account does not independently establish whether any money has been transferred or whether the proposed activities have been carried out.
