In a concerning development, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, leader of the Canada-based terror group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), issued a new warning directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Pannun stated that neither the US nor Canada could assist India in safeguarding its territorial integrity due to what he alleged as successive Indian regimes’ involvement in the genocide of Sikhs.
Pannun’s Call for Punjab’s Liberation
The Khalistani militant advocated for the liberation of Punjab through a Khalistan Referendum, labeling it as the ‘only solution.’ Threatening action on December 13, he vowed to announce a response to an alleged assassination attempt, targeting the Indian Parliament.
Indian Intelligence Agencies’ Reaction
In response, intelligence sources dismissed Pannun’s threats as a routine tactic to avoid scrutiny. However, they expressed serious concerns about the impact on national security, emphasizing that Pannun not only issues threats but also influences unaware youth, especially those born after 1984.
Top intelligence sources declared a commitment to addressing the issue seriously and stated their intention to engage with the US, UK, and Canada on this matter.
MEA’s Firm Response
Responding to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun’s threat against Parliament, MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi affirmed India’s seriousness in addressing such threats. Acknowledging the challenge of not amplifying extremists’ influence, Bagchi mentioned that the matter has been raised with US and Canadian authorities.
He underscored the tendency of terrorists seeking media coverage and emphasized that precautions are being taken. Last month, Pannun openly threatened to picket Air India flights between Vancouver and Toronto, urging Sikhs to avoid the airline.
India’s Response to Air India Threats
Government sources in India conveyed that since the threat originated in Canada, the responsibility for ensuring the uninterrupted operation of the flight lies with Canadian authorities. They emphasized that any attack on the crew or carrier would be the responsibility of Canada, urging them to provide written assurance.
Earlier, the SFJ leader had warned passengers flying on Air India flights from November 19 onward about potential danger to their lives. Sources indicated Pannun’s attempt to provoke youth against India and mentioned his threat to replicate the tragic 1985 bombing of Air India’s Kanishka flight. The Boeing 747 flight, named after Emperor Kanishka, exploded mid-air, claiming the lives of 329 passengers on June 23, 1985.