New Delhi, Sept 24: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a case against US-based Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and his banned outfit ‘Sikhs For Justice’ (SFJ) for openly challenging India’s sovereignty and issuing threats against Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of Independence Day.
According to officials, the case stems from a video address delivered by Pannun during a press event at the Lahore Press Club in Pakistan on August 10. Speaking via video link from the United States, Pannun announced a reward of ₹11 crore for anyone who could prevent Prime Minister Modi from hoisting the national flag on August 15. The provocative remarks were accompanied by the unveiling of a so-called “Khalistan map,” which falsely claimed Punjab, Delhi, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh as part of a separatist state.
In his address, Pannun launched a tirade against India, calling for the rejection of its sovereignty over Punjab and urging Sikhs to turn against the country. The FIR notes that his comments were aimed at disrupting India’s territorial integrity and internal security while inciting disaffection among members of the Sikh community. The SFJ, already banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), also claimed to have formed a so-called “martyr’s group” to wage a separatist struggle against India.
Taking cognizance of the matter, the Union Home Ministry directed the NIA to probe the case, citing the seriousness of the threats and their wider national and international implications. “Having regard to the gravity of the offence, its national and international ramifications, and the need to unearth the larger conspiracy, it is required to be investigated by the National Investigation Agency,” the ministry noted in its order.
The NIA has booked Pannun and SFJ under Section 61(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for criminal conspiracy, along with relevant provisions of the UAPA, India’s principal anti-terror law. Officials said the agency will investigate not just Pannun’s public statements but also possible financial backers, collaborators, and networks that might have aided in amplifying his anti-India propaganda.
Pannun, who has long been designated as a terrorist by India, has been at the forefront of SFJ’s secessionist campaigns. Operating from abroad, he frequently uses online platforms and public forums in Pakistan and other countries to push for the creation of Khalistan. Indian security agencies have repeatedly flagged his attempts to radicalize sections of the Sikh diaspora and his involvement in funding anti-India activities.
The latest case, authorities said, is part of India’s continuing crackdown on Khalistani separatist elements and their attempts to destabilize the country. The NIA is expected to pursue international channels to track Pannun’s activities and bring his associates under scrutiny.
