Discussion on the Pannun Episode and Anti-India Activities
The Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh, addressed issues related to pro-Khalistani groups in the U.S. during a meeting with the U.S. Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard.
Key Issues Raised
- Designation of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) as a foreign terrorist organization due to its anti-India activities.
- Alleged backing of SFJ by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Background of SFJ
- Founded in 2007 by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a U.S.-based attorney.
- Advocates for “self-determination” for Sikhs in Punjab, aiming for a sovereign state of Khalistan.
- Banned by India in 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for anti-India activities.
Concerns and Diplomatic Efforts
- The resurgence of the Khalistani insurgency in western countries concerns India.
- Recent aggressive pro-Khalistani protests, including an incident involving External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in London.
- Efforts to address the issue with countries like Canada and the U.K. have faced challenges.
International Relations Challenges
- Allegations of Indian agencies attempting targeted killings of Khalistani sympathizers have strained ties with Canada and the U.S.
- Relations with the Trudeau administration in Canada were tense, and the Biden administration exerted diplomatic pressure on India.
Current U.S. Administration's Stance
- The Trump administration seems less inclined to escalate the matter and may be more receptive to India's concerns.
India must balance its efforts against anti-India groups with maintaining cohesive relations with the Indian diaspora and its diplomatic partners.
