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New Delhi: As India prepares for Republic Day celebrations, the capital Delhi has been hit by a wave of pro-Khalistan sentiments. Slogans supporting Khalistan surfaced in parts of Delhi this morning ahead of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun’s threats for Republic Day. Slogans in support of Khalistan were found written on walls of Chander Vihar area of Outer Delhi.
Delhi Police responded quickly and removed the inflammatory slogans and initiated legal proceedings. The incident coincides with threats by Khalistani activist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who had earlier circulated videos threatening to hoist the Khalistani flag in Delhi on January 26.
Pannun, a dual American-Canadian citizen and founder of Sikhs for Justice, has been accused by the United States of being a potential assassination target by Indian nationals, including Nikhil Gupta and an unnamed Indian government official. His threats extend beyond the capital as well. Recently, Pannun had issued a threat to Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, urging gangsters to attack him on Republic Day. Due to this, security measures have been increased for Mann, who now enjoys Z+ category security.
Apart from this, Pannun has also issued a threat to disrupt the upcoming consecration ceremony of Ram temple in Ayodhya. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries are expected to attend this important event. Pannun’s threats have raised security concerns at the national level, leading to the deployment of additional security personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and special units.
The Sikh for Justice group is suspected to be behind the sloganeering of Khalistan in Delhi. The group is calling for a referendum on the independence of Khalistan and is known to misuse cyberspace to radicalize youth and instigate them for terrorist activities. The group, which has been declared an unlawful association by the Indian government, is believed to be organized by Pannun, particularly around Indian national holidays.
In an unrelated incident, two people were arrested for leaving smoke bombs in the Lok Sabha, causing panic and disruption. Although initially suspected to be linked to Khalistan, police later confirmed that the men were protesting over other issues and now face charges under India’s anti-terrorism law UAPA.
These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges India faces from separatist elements, especially on the eve of national celebrations. As Republic Day approaches, the country remains alert and security measures have been stepped up to ensure peaceful celebrations.
