Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a New York-based lawyer and the general counsel for Sikhs for Justice, has recently made headlines due to his controversial statements and actions. This activist group is associated with the movement advocating for Khalistan, a separate Sikh state, to be established in India’s Punjab region.
The Indian government has labeled Pannun a wanted terrorist and the National Investigation Agency (NIA) is scrutinizing him for a supposed involvement in a video threatening Air India passengers. Amidst these accusations, the Biden administration has warned the Indian government against any potential plans to harm Pannun on U.S. soil.
Pannun has additionally faced allegations of issuing terror threats and attempting to undermine essential transportation networks. Nevertheless, he vehemently denies any wrongdoing.
What is gurpatwant singh pannun’s background and political views
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is a prominent figure in the Khalistan movement, which seeks to establish a separate religious state, known as Khalistan, from Punjab and various neighboring regions in India.
Pannun is a distinguished legal advisor and spokesperson for Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a group dedicated to advocating for an independent Sikh state. With a degree in law from Panjab University, Pannun has extensive experience practicing law in the US and Canada.
He is renowned for filing lawsuits against Indian officials and institutions, accusing them of human rights violations against Sikhs. Pannun also regularly posts videos and posters urging action against India, its people, and diplomats. His involvement spans various cases, including the Punjab Referendum 2020 and the release of Jagtar Singh Hawara, who is currently serving a life sentence for his role in the assassination of Beant Singh.
Pannun maintains an active presence on social media, often posting audio and video messages in accented Punjabi. He regularly announces rewards for raising the flag of Khalistan on government buildings.
In July 2020, the Indian government labeled Pannun a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. He is currently facing a total of 22 criminal charges, including three for sedition, in Punjab, India.
What is the sikhs for justice movement and what are its goals
Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) is a US-based group that advocates for the secession of Punjab from India to create an independent Sikh state called Khalistan. Founded in 2007 by lawyer Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the organization seeks to hold a referendum, known as “Referendum 2020,” to determine the political future of Punjab. The group has been banned in India and is considered an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. SFJ’s activities have been criticized for promoting secessionism and militant ideology, and it has been accused of receiving support from inimical forces in other countries. The group’s secessionist campaign aims to “liberate Punjab from Indian occupation” and establish it as an independent country. The Punjab Referendum campaign seeks to provide the people of Punjab with an opportunity to vote on their future political status, similar to how other nations have achieved independence through referenda