By Manisha Sahu, America News World
September 24, 2025
New Delhi, September 24, 2025 — The National Investigation Agency (NIA) of India has lodged a fresh case against US-based Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, accusing him of issuing a threat against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and challenging the country’s sovereignty in connection with India’s Independence Day celebrations. The case revolves around Pannun’s alleged announcement offering ₹11 crore (about 1.3 million USD) to Sikh soldiers if they prevented the Prime Minister from hoisting the Indian national flag at Red Fort on August 15.
What led to the case
The First Information Report (FIR) filed by the NIA states that Pannun—who is general counsel for the banned Sikh organisation Sikhs for Justice (SFJ)—made the reward offer during a video address from Washington on August 10, at a “Meet the Press” event held at the Lahore Press Club in Pakistan.
In that address, Pannun also reportedly unveiled a map proposing a new Khalistan state, which he said would encompass Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Delhi. The FIR alleges that he also claimed the SFJ had formed a “Shaheed Jatha” (martyr group) to fight against India.
Also read:-India Rolls Out Landmark “GST 2.0” Reform: Two-Slab Tax Regime, Relief for Consumers
Charges and legal grounds
According to the FIR, Pannun is being charged under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). These laws cover criminal conspiracy, disrupting the sovereignty or territorial integrity of India, and spreading disaffection among communities.
The FIR names Gurpatwant Singh Pannun and other unknown persons as accused. It cites “credible information” including video content retrieved from the SFJ’s public channel on X (formerly Twitter).
Government’s response
The case was initiated following a directive from India’s Union Home Ministry. The ministry, in its order, referred to the “gravity of the offence, its national and international ramifications and the need to unearth the larger conspiracy”. It emphasised that Pannun’s speech “primarily focussed on the rejection of India’s sovereignty over Punjab and the promotion of Khalistan.”
The filing of the case under anti-terror provisions reflects how seriously New Delhi views the threat, seeing it not just as a provocative statement, but as an act with potential to incite disaffection and violence.
Pannun and SFJ: A brief background
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is an activist-lawyer based in the United States, known as the general counsel of Sikhs for Justice. He has been advocating for the creation of a separate sovereign Sikh state—Khalistan.
The Indian government has designated him a terrorist. In past years, Pannun has been accused of multiple anti-India statements and actions, including holding referendums outside India and issuing rewards for acts seen as hostile to Indian sovereignty.
Implications
The case has national and international dimensions:
Domestically, it underscores the Indian state’s vigilance against external separatist elements, and signal that speech crossing certain lines—especially calling for armed or military obstruction of national ceremonies—may be prosecuted as terrorism or anti-national conduct.
Internationally, it raises questions about cross-border activism, free speech, and how nations respond when citizens abroad engage in what some consider incitement or calls for violence.
The case may also strain diplomatic balances, especially between India and countries where Pannun operates (USA, Canada) depending on evidence, extradition possibilities, or cooperation.
Also read :- GST Rate Cuts from September 22: Relief for Common Man, Boost for Businesses
What to watch for
Whether any associates or intermediaries of Pannun are arrested or identified under this case. (Some reports suggest an aide may already have been arrested in connection. )
How the courts interpret the speech and reward announcement in light of India’s law on freedom of expression vs national security laws.
Responses from Pannun himself, SFJ, and international human rights or advocacy groups.
Possible diplomatic dialogue or objection, especially if US or other country legal systems are involved, given Pannun’s base abroad.
The FIR filed by the NIA marks a serious escalation in legal action against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The reward offer to Sikh soldiers to prevent the Prime Minister from hoisting India’s flag is being treated not merely as provocative rhetoric—but as a threat to India’s sovereignty and unity. As the investigation unfolds, it could test the boundaries of free expression, counterterrorism law, and international legal cooperation.
Discover more from ANW
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
