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Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has issued a warning to passengers, urging them to refrain from flying with Air India between November 1 and 19. This threat is linked to the approaching 40th anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, an event Pannun refers to as the “Sikh genocide.” In a video message, he suggests that this timeframe may see potential attacks on Air India flights, mirroring similar threats he made last year around the same anniversary.
Pannun is a prominent figure in the Khalistan separatist movement, which seeks to establish an independent Sikh state, Khalistan, carved out of Punjab, India. Based in the United States, he is a lawyer and the founder of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), an organization that employs legal and political avenues to advocate for Khalistan. Under his leadership, SFJ has organized numerous international campaigns and referendums, aiming to draw global attention to the Khalistan cause. Pannun has also actively used digital platforms to promote Khalistan's independence and has engaged in legal actions against Indian officials.
Designated as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in July 2020, Pannun's activities have made him one of India's most wanted individuals. The Indian government has issued multiple warrants for his arrest and has confiscated his properties within India. Despite these actions, Pannun remains influential in the international political landscape, particularly in Canada, the UK, and the US, where he seeks to gain support for the Khalistan movement. His dual citizenship in the US and Canada complicates matters further, leading to diplomatic tensions between India and these countries, especially after the recent India-Canada dispute regarding the Nijjar murder case.
This warning comes at a time when Indian airlines have been grappling with a series of hoax bomb threats, which have caused significant disruptions in operations. In recent days, more than 100 aircraft have received false bomb threats, raising alarm about airline security and passenger safety. While all reported threats have turned out to be rumors, the frequency of these incidents has led to heightened anxiety among travelers.
In addition to the bomb threats, Pannun's claims about his connections with the Canadian government have further inflamed tensions. He recently admitted to being in contact with Canadian officials, suggesting that he has been providing intelligence against India. As authorities assess the credibility of Pannun's threats, they urge passengers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The Indian government continues to monitor his activities closely, taking all necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of the aviation sector.