The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) Tribunal has upheld the central government’s decision to designate Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), led by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, as an unlawful organisation for another five years. This decision, confirmed on Friday, follows the Centre’s July 8 notification and comes amid growing concerns about the group’s alleged anti-national activities.
The tribunal, chaired by Delhi High Court Justice Anoop Kumar Mendiratta, reviewed the evidence presented by the government, finding it credible and substantial. According to reports, the evidence demonstrated SFJ’s extensive use of social media to radicalise and recruit youth, as well as its financing of terrorism through smuggling networks for arms and explosives procurement.
Links to Khalistani Terror Groups and Foreign Influence
Justice Mendiratta noted SFJ’s connections with international Khalistani terrorist organisations, including Babbar Khalsa International, and its alleged ties to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). The tribunal highlighted the group’s efforts to revive militancy in Punjab, a region historically affected by separatist movements.
“The evidence clearly points to SFJ’s role in anti-national and subversive activities,” said Justice Mendiratta. “Their efforts to incite mutiny within the armed forces and issue death threats to political leaders like the Prime Minister and Home Minister are deeply concerning.”
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) argued that the extension of SFJ’s ban is necessary to safeguard India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The government described SFJ’s activities as “detrimental to internal security and public order,” citing attempts to destabilise the democratically elected government through violent extremism and secessionist propaganda.
A History of Controversy
SFJ was first banned in 2019 under the UAPA for similar reasons, including its role in promoting Khalistan, a separatist movement seeking to carve out a sovereign state from Indian territory. The current ban extends the designation until July 10, 2024.
According to the MHA, SFJ has been actively collaborating with gangsters, terrorists, and other radical elements, including Kashmiri separatists. The organisation has reportedly incited Sikh personnel in the armed forces and police to desert their duties and has sought to exploit tensions through political lobbying and protests abroad.
International Activities and Symbolic Actions
SFJ has been accused of organising anti-India demonstrations outside Indian embassies, consulates, and high commissions across various countries. During these protests, SFJ supporters have raised Khalistan flags, desecrated the Indian national flag, and burned copies of the Indian Constitution. The government claims these actions are part of a coordinated effort to undermine India’s global image.
Additionally, the organisation has reportedly used political lobbying in foreign nations to exert pressure on the Indian government. These activities, combined with its alleged financing of terrorism and links to foreign intelligence agencies, have drawn widespread condemnation.
A Strong Message Against Subversion
The tribunal’s confirmation of the ban sends a strong message against organisations engaging in activities that threaten India’s unity and integrity. The government’s proactive stance underscores its commitment to countering extremism and safeguarding national security.
This ruling is expected to bolster efforts to curb separatist movements and maintain peace in regions vulnerable to radicalisation. For now, the extension of SFJ’s designation as an unlawful association reinforces the central government’s resolve to act decisively against threats to India’s sovereignty.
