Extension of Ban on Sikhs For Justice (SFJ): A Necessary Measure for National Security

New Delhi, India – The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced on Tuesday that it has extended the ban on the pro-Khalistan group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The decision comes in response to the group’s continued anti-India activities, which pose a threat to the country’s integrity and security.

Background and Justification

Sikhs For Justice, founded by US-based lawyer Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in 2007, initially presented itself as a human rights advocacy group. However, over the years, it has become notorious for its involvement in anti-national and subversive activities, particularly in Punjab. The Centre first declared SFJ an unlawful association in 2019, a decision that was subsequently upheld by a tribunal. The tribunal dismissed the group’s claims that its members’ actions and social media posts were harmless, recognizing the significant repercussions these activities had within India.

In its notification, the MHA stated, “The Central Government hereby extends the declaration of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) as an unlawful association and directs that this notification have effect for a further period of five years from the 10th day of July, 2024.” The ministry emphasized that SFJ continues to engage in activities detrimental to India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The group is closely associated with militant outfits and has been known to support violent extremism and militancy aimed at carving out a sovereign Khalistan from Indian territory.

A Persistent Threat

The activities of SFJ have been a significant concern for national security agencies. The group’s persistent efforts to disrupt the peace and stability in Punjab and other regions have necessitated stringent measures. The MHA’s decision to extend the ban underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the country’s integrity.

SFJ has been actively involved in promoting separatist sentiments and has been linked to various instances of violence and extremism. Its leader, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, is a vocal advocate for the Khalistan movement and has been designated as a terrorist by the Indian government. The group’s propaganda and recruitment efforts have been primarily driven through social media and other digital platforms, making it a pervasive threat that transcends geographical boundaries.

Government’s Stance

The extension of the ban on SFJ reflects the government’s proactive stance in addressing threats to national security. By continuing to classify SFJ as an unlawful association, the government aims to curb its influence and prevent it from furthering its separatist agenda. The notification issued by the MHA highlights the ongoing nature of SFJ’s activities and the need for continued vigilance.