New Delhi: Khalistani seperatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has issued a fresh warning, urging passengers to avoid flying Air India between November 1 and 19. The threat, according to Pannun, is linked to the 40th anniversary of the anti-Sikh riots.
Pannun, the founder of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), had made similar threats last year around the same time. His recent warning comes amid increased security concerns as airlines in India have been facing multiple hoax bomb threats in recent months.
This development coincides with the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, following allegations by the Canadian government that India is targeting Khalistani elements within its borders. The diplomatic row intensified after the killing of Khalistani seperatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, an incident for which India has denied any involvement.
Pannun’s previous threats included a claim in November 2023 that Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport would be shut down on November 19, warning passengers to avoid flying Air India that day. He has also been involved in other high-profile threats, such as an alleged plan to attack the Indian Parliament in December last year.
Pannun, who holds dual citizenship in Canada and the US, has been designated a terrorist by India’s Ministry of Home Affairs since July 2020. He has been charged with criminal conspiracy and promoting enmity under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
In a related incident, on October 17, the United States charged a former officer of India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) for allegedly directing a foiled plot to assassinate Pannun, a claim India has dismissed as baseless.
