In a fresh provocation, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent leader of the banned separatist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), has released a video threatening attacks on Russian diplomatic missions worldwide. Pannun accused Russia of aligning with India against the Khalistan movement and warned of retaliation by pro-Khalistan groups in countries including the United States, Canada, the European Union, Australia, and New Zealand.
Pro-Khalistan separatists claim that: "Today Pro Khalistan Sikhs Seized Consulates of Russia and India in New York and Toronto." pic.twitter.com/G1N7IC5dqK
— Alex Zoltan (@AmazingZoltan) December 14, 2024
Pannun directly addressed Russian officials, warning them to cease collaboration with India. “Russia, back off or face off with pro-Khalistan Sikhs,” he declared, threatening protests and possible violence targeting Russian diplomats and consulates.
In his message, Pannun accused Indian Ambassador to the United States, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, of spearheading coordination between Russian and Indian diplomatic efforts in North America. He claimed that Russian intelligence agencies are providing logistics and operational support to what he described as the “Modi regime,” to curb pro-Khalistan activism in North America and Europe.
Pannun also issued a personal threat against Ambassador Kwatra, referring to him as “the face of the India-Russia terror nexus.” He warned that the ambassador is on the radar of Khalistani groups and hinted at further actions targeting him.
The threats from the SFJ leader come amidst growing international attention on Khalistani separatist activities, which have been linked to incidents of violence and vandalism targeting Indian diplomatic missions abroad. Pannun’s latest remarks are likely to heighten tensions, particularly in countries where Sikh diaspora communities are active.
While the SFJ has been banned in India for its advocacy of a separate Sikh homeland, the group continues to operate from abroad, using online platforms and public demonstrations to promote its cause. Pannun’s rhetoric has previously drawn condemnation from governments and organizations around the world, as his calls for violence undermine diplomatic norms and international security.
Pannun’s accusations of a strategic partnership between India and Russia to counter Khalistani activities may signal a new dimension in the separatist group’s strategy. Russia has traditionally maintained strong ties with India, but the SFJ’s threats to Russian missions and media outlets mark an unusual expansion of its antagonism to a third country.
The Russian government has not yet issued a formal response to Pannun’s statements. However, experts suggest that these threats may prompt greater cooperation between India and its allies, including Russia, to address the security concerns posed by separatist elements.
Pannun’s threats underline the persistent challenge posed by groups like the SFJ to international stability and diplomacy. Governments worldwide will likely be on high alert to prevent any incidents targeting diplomatic missions or personnel, as law enforcement agencies work to mitigate the risk of violence associated with such rhetoric.
