The government extended the ban on the pro-Khalistan organization, Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), on Tuesday for another five years. SFJ, established by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a separatist leader based in the US, was first outlawed by the Union Home Ministry in 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act due to its anti-national operations.
A ministry notification indicated that SFJ has engaged in activities detrimental to India's internal security and public order. These activities include endorsing violent extremism and militancy in Punjab and other regions with the goal of creating a sovereign Khalistan out of Indian territory.
"Now, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-sections (1) and (3) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), the Central Government hereby extends the declaration of the Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) as an unlawful association and directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect for a further period of five years from 10th day of July, 2024," it said.
The notification also alleged that SFJ maintains connections with militant groups and activists and has backed secessionist efforts, including attempts to overthrow the legally established government.
“The government feels that if the SFJ's activities are not curbed, it may escalate its subversive activities, propagate anti-national sentiments, and incite violence in the country,” the MHA noted.
Three years ago, SFJ conducted a referendum campaign advocating for a separate Khalistan. Its founder, Pannun, who holds dual citizenship in the US and Canada, is wanted in India on terrorism charges.
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