KHALISTAN EXTREMISM MONITOR
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
A project of the Institute for Conflict Management
20-Oct-2023
The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) spokesperson, Aamir Hashmi, on October 20 revealed the board's decision to digitize five temples and gurdwaras in Pakistan. The sites include Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur Sahib, Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal, Katas Raj temple, Chakwal, Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib, and Sadhu Bela Mandir, Sukkur. The initiative aims to provide virtual tours for devotees and enhance their spiritual connection with these religious sites. The tours will be accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. The ETPB manages properties left behind by Hindus and Sikhs who migrated to India after the 1947 partition.
16-Oct-2023
According to reports, there have been calls for the establishment of Khalistan in the central area of Karachi in Pakistan with slogans proclaiming, "Pakistan Banega Khalistan, Karachi Banega Khalistan, Mulla Banega Khalsa." A video displaying these slogans has garnered substantial attention on social media. Pakistan has faced allegations of encouraging separatist sentiments in Punjab, particularly through its support for the Khalistan movement and assistance to Khalistani militants. This situation has escalated to the extent that pro-Khalistan slogans are now surfacing in the region, the report said.
09-Oct-2023
Reports indicate that the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), responsible for the management and upkeep of gurdwaras in Pakistan, has come under scrutiny from the Sikh community. The criticism it faces stems from concerns expressed by the community, revealing their profound devotion and respect for these sacred locations.
20-Sep-2023
The Sikh community in Lahore held a protest on September 20 against the Indian government, condemning the killing of Khalistani terrorist and the chief of Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), Hardeep Singh Nijjar, in Lahore, Pakistan. Former member of the Punjab Assembly, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, claimed to the media that India had a hand in the assassination of the Khalistan leader. The protestors accused Indian intelligence agencies of targeting Sikhs globally and urged the international community to take note of India's alleged acts of terrorism.
16-Sep-2023
The Lahore High Court, on September 16, raised objections to the reopening of the case of Indian independence war hero Bhagat Singh's 1931 sentencing and the consideration of posthumous state awards for him. The objections pertain to the maintainability of the petition and the constitution of a larger bench for an early hearing. The petitioners argue that Bhagat Singh's name was not originally mentioned in the First Information Report (FIR) for the murder for which he was sentenced to death, and they seek to establish his innocence in the case.
13-Sep-2023
Pakistan's Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) has exposed a significant drug-smuggling network operating in India, led by Mazhar Iqbal, the head of Lahore Police's anti-narcotics wing. Iqbal and his network used drones to smuggle drugs from Kasur in the Punjab Province of Pakistan, particularly heroin, into India, specifically Punjab. Despite a history of dismissals and suspensions related to illegal activities, Iqbal held a key position in the anti-narcotics department of Lahore Police. The police investigation revealed that a drone in Mazhar Iqbal's network transported up to 6 kg of drugs across the border to Indian Punjab. The network's exposure came after the arrest of six Indians from Punjab: Gurmeet Singh, Shinder Singh, Juginder Singh, Vishal Jagga, Rattan Pal Singh, and Garvender Singh in Pakistani territory, leading to an investigation into Iqbal's involvement in cross-border drug smuggling, with authorities estimating his amassed wealth to be substantial.
07-Sep-2023
Pakistan's caretaker Religious Affairs Minister, Aneeq Ahmed, on September 7 announced efforts to increase the number of Sikh and Hindu pilgrims from India, as their numbers have declined in recent years due to strained bilateral ties. This announcement was made during his visit to the Evacuee Property Trust Board (EPTB) in Islamabad, Pakistan.
07-Sep-2023
Pakistan's caretaker Religious Affairs Minister Aneeq Ahmed on September 7 laid the foundation stone for a Cultural Theme Park near Gurdwara Darbar Sahib at Kartarpur Corridor in Punjab province of Pakistan. The project is aimed at attracting more Sikh pilgrims. The first phase, which includes restaurants, a food street, play areas, and cultural amenities, will be completed in six months, with the entire project expected to take three years.
30-Aug-2023
Pakistan's Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) on August 30 claimed to have unearthed a cross-border drug smuggling network allegedly operated by Mazhar Iqbal, the head of Lahore police's anti-narcotics wing, which aimed to smuggle heroin, particularly into India via drones, in Lahore, Pakistan. Iqbal has allegedly amassed significant profits from this illicit activity, and action has been initiated based on statements from recently arrested Indian smugglers. Despite a First Information Report (FIR) being registered against him, Iqbal remains beyond arrest due to pre-arrest bail. A committee of senior police officials has been formed to expand the investigation, which has revealed that Iqbal's network transported over 30 kilograms of heroin from Kasur in the Punjab province of Pakistan to India through drones, with payments received in Dubai.
29-Aug-2023
According to a report, on August 29, a drone along with 10 kilograms of heroin was recovered by Anti-Narcotics Forces (ANF) from a smuggler's vehicle in Lahore, Pakistan. According to sources, the heroin originated from Afghanistan and was meant to be smuggled into India.
22-Aug-2023
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of Pakistan Army on August 22 stated that the Pakistan Rangers have arrested six alleged Indian smugglers, identified as Gurmeej, Shinder Singh, Juginder Singh, Vishal, Rattan Pal Singh and Garvender Singh, between July 29 and August 3, for allegedly trying to smuggle “narcotics, weapons and ammunition” into Pakistan. There has been no immediate response from Indian authorities regarding this incident.
17-Jul-2023
Malik Mohd Ahmad Khan, who is the Special Assistant on Defence to Pakistan Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, admitted in an interview on July 17 that Pakistani smugglers are increasingly using drones to transport drugs across the border to India, corroborating previous allegations. In the interview with journalist Hamid Mir in Kasur city, which borders the Indian Punjab, Khan confirmed the use of drones for smuggling. The admission is significant as Khan holds close ties to Pakistan's political and military establishment. The issue of cross-border drug and arms smuggling through drones has been a persistent concern for India, with recent recoveries indicating a continued problem. Kasur is located near Punjab's Khemkaran and Ferozepur. As per recent data from Punjab Police, Ferozepur district alone witnessed 795 FIRs registered under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act from July 2022-2023. The majority of drug seizures occurred in the Punjab districts bordering Pakistan.
14-Jul-2023
According to reports, a drone carrying heroin crashed in agricultural fields near Hadiara area of Lahore on July 14. Five packets of heroin suspected to be worth millions of rupees were recovered by the police, both the drone and the heroin were handed over to the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) for further investigation.
07-Jul-2023
A drone carrying six kilograms of heroin crashed in the Halloki area of Lahore, Pakistan on July 7. According to Pakistan police, the drone was eventually recovered from Rasoolpura village, which is close to the India-Pakistan border. India’s Border Security Forces (BSF) sources reported increased drone activities near Pakistani border outposts across Ferozepur and Amritsar sectors in Punjab, with Pakistan allegedly utilizing "dummy drones" for smuggling weapons, drugs, and explosives.
29-Jun-2023
According to reports, on June 29, miscreants entered the Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Sukkur, Sindh province of Pakistan, and verbally abused the priests while desecrating the Guru Granth Sahib. The culprits were allegedly released by the police without conducting a proper investigation. This incident raises concerns about the safety of minorities in Pakistan, as recent attacks on Sikhs have sparked alarm.
25-Jun-2023
The Islamic State (IS) group on June 25 claimed responsibility for the killing of a Sikh man Manmohan Singh, who was shot and killed on June 24 in a targeted attack in Peshawar, Pakistan, stating that Singh belonged to a "polytheistic" Sikh sect.
24-Jun-2023
A Sikh shopkeeper named Manmohan Singh was shot dead on June 24, in Rashidgarhi Bazaar in Peshawar in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province of Pakistan by unidentified gunmen. The locals believe it to be a targeted attack, marking the second incident in two days. On June 23, another Sikh shopkeeper, Tarlok Singh, was shot but survived.
21-Jun-2023
On June 21, over 400 Indian Sikh pilgrims have arrived Pakistan to participate in the death anniversary congregation of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
19-Jun-2023
Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi on June 19 issued 473 visas to Sikh pilgrims to attend the annual death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjeet Singh, scheduled to be held in Pakistan from June 21-30.
06-Jun-2023
Pakistan on June 6 issued 215 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India who intended to partake in an annual festival scheduled to occur on the eve of Guru Arjan Dev's martyrdom day.
21-May-2023
According to reports, Sikh women in Pakistan continue to face persecution, marginalization, and violence, contrasting with the progress made by their counterparts in India. Despite constitutional guarantees of women's rights in India, including education and work, Sikh women in Pakistan experience systemic discrimination and are denied essential human rights. They face obstacles such as limited access to education, healthcare, and decision-making, as well as forced marriages and honour killings.
12-May-2023
Anti-Khalistani and social groups accused Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) of eliminating non-profitable Indian fugitives and replacing them with younger leaders in a bid to revive Khalistani separatism. The killing of Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar is seen as a result of this policy shift. The new face of Khalistan is 30-year-old Amritpal Singh, while three other Khalistani leaders, Lakhbir Singh Rode, Wadhawa Singh, and Gajinder Singh, who were living under the ISI's protection, have now increased their personal security fearing they could be targeted. Social groups are protesting outside the Pakistan Embassy on May 12.
10-May-2023
According to report, retired Pakistani military officers, Major Adil Raja and Colonel Akbar Hussain, alleged that Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) operates a smuggling network involving high-ranking army officers that fuels the Khalistan movement and narco-terrorism. The report claims that the ISI exploited Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar to operate drug cartels and target Punjab's youth. The ISI allegedly raised funds under the guise of black operations and utilised them to finance smuggling and contraband networks. The report also alleges that the Pakistani army used actresses as honey traps.
10-May-2023
The funeral of Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar was held in Lahore in Pakistan. Meanwhile, several Sikh organizations in Punjab and overseas planned to hold prayers for him on May 15.
07-May-2023
According to reports, Pakistan has been reluctant to grant visas to slain Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) chief Paramjit Singh Panjwar's sons, settled in Germany, to attend their father's last rites. The Pakistani media has reported his death as a routine killing of a Sikh. Panjwar was involved in drug and weapons smuggling and accused of various crimes, including killing 18 students in Patiala. The killing is the latest instance of terror kingpins being targeted outside India.
06-May-2023
The wanted Khalistani terrorist and the chief of Khalistan Commando Force (KCF), Paramjit Singh Panjwar, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Lahore in Pakistan on May 6. According to sources, Panjwar was gunned down in the morning by two motorcycle-borne men near his residence in Lahore. He was involved in drug and weapons smuggling and was designated as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in July 2020. Panjwar, who was the chief of the separatist group Khalistan Commando Force (KCF-Panjwar group), was accused by the Indian government of various illegal activities including arranging arms training, promoting drug trade, smuggling fake Indian currency notes, inciting minorities against the government, and attempting to reactivate former militants, sleeper cells, and those on bail to form a nexus with other forces hostile to India. The KCF was listed as a terrorist organization under the UAPA.
06-May-2023
According to reports, the killing of Paramjit Singh Panjwar alias Sardar Singh Malik, the longest serving head of the banned terrorist organisation Khalistan Commando Force (KCF) could have been a result of inter-gang rivalry or a dispute with other terrorist organizations. Panjwar is the second notorious terrorist killed recently in Pakistan. Earlier in January 2020, Harmeet Singh alias Happy PhD, who headed the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) was also killed.
05-May-2023
According to reports, religious minorities in Pakistan are facing targeted attacks and persecution, with hardly a day passing without an attack. Law enforcement agencies have failed to apprehend the perpetrators of these murders, leaving minorities feeling frustrated and helpless. Pakistan has been designated a "country of particular concern" under the Religious Freedom Act for its flagrant violations, and local law enforcement has failed to protect religious minorities and individuals accused of blasphemy.
15-Apr-2023
During the Baisakhi occasion at Sri Panja Sahib near Rawalpindi, Gopal Singh Chawla, a pro-Khalistan leader based in Pakistan, addressed Indian Sikhs and encouraged them to demand Khalistan. He reportedly compelled the audience to chant "Khalistan Zindabad" and stated that despite being a part of the Shiromani Committee and Delhi Committee, they were still Sikhs and could not openly raise their voices. He expressed a desire for their own country and declared that anyone who is a Guru's Sikh would support his call for ‘Khalistan Zindabad.’
13-Apr-2023
Reports indicate that Khalistani accounts and websites based in Pakistan are spreading false information about the Indian Army in relation to the firing incident at Bathinda military station.
22-Mar-2023
According to reports, Pakistan has commenced a campaign to promote abandoned sacred sites of Sikh and Hindu heritage by renovating them, with the goal of drawing in pilgrims from India and other nations. The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) stated that it has devised a comprehensive strategy to refurbish, maintain, and preserve the Sikh and Hindu religious sites located within Pakistan. As part of this initiative, the ETPB has initiated restoration work at the Prahladpuri Temple, which is situated in the city of Multan in the Punjab province.
10-Mar-2023
The Pakistani government has permitted the publication of religious books for students from Sikh and Christian minority communities under the supervision of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training (PMTA). Anjum James Paul, the chairman of (PMTA), said that it will help minority students to learn about their religion in schools. However, minority groups, including Hindus, Buddhists, Parsees, Kalash, and Baha’is, are still not permitted to print their religious textbooks in Pakistan.
01-Mar-2023
According to a Pakistan government notification released on March 1, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appointed Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora as the Ambassador-at-Large for Kartarpur Corridor as part of efforts to draw Sikh pilgrims from all over the world.
24-Feb-2023
The Pakistani media on February 24 highlighted how supporters of pro-Khalistan Sikh leader Amritpal Singh 'staged a large demonstration in Amritsar on February 23 and put the Indian Punjab Police on the back foot'. Also, it mentioned, "the demand for Khalistan by Sikhs in Indian Punjab is gathering pace."
25-Jan-2023
According to reports in Pakistan, the gold-plated kalash that used to rest atop the dome of the Palki Sahib (palanquin) installed at Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartapur Sahib, in Pakistan, has gone missing, leading to suspicion that it had been stolen from the Sikh shrine.
11-Jan-2023
Pakistan government has appointed a senior officer of its intelligence agency Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Project Management Unit (PMU) that manages the affairs of Gurdwara Darbar Sahib on the Pakistan side of Kartarpur Corridor. According to highly placed sources, the Deputy Secretary (Administration), Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) had on January 11 issued a notification number 212 for the appointment of Muhammad Abu Bakar Aftab Qureshi, Deputy Director General, Directorate General ISI as CEO, PMU, Kartapur Sahib for a period of three years. The appointment of an ISI officer as well as a non-Sikh as head of PMU is being criticized by the international Sikh community who are of the view that a non-Sikh couldn’t take ‘correct’ decisions with regards to the religious affairs of Sikhs besides being an official of ISI, he could use the platform of PMU to further anti-India agenda.
04-Nov-2022
According to reports, Pakistan issued visas to nearly 3,000 Indian pilgrims under the framework of the Pakistan-India Protocol on Visits to Religious Shrines of 1974 to participate in celebrations in several cities in the bordering nation on the birth anniversary of Guru Nanak from November 6-15.
01-Nov-2022
According to intelligence sources, pro-Khalistan terrorist groups have infiltrated gurudwaras in Pakistan’s Lahore under a “new game plan” by Pakistan in a bid to promote extremism in the Indian Sikh community against Hindus and the Indian government. The intelligence inputs said that the alleged hijacker of the Srinagar-Lahore flight in 1984 was seen meeting Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh in Panja Sahib Gurdwara in Lahore. Pakistan’s game plan as such is to keep Khalistani extremists in gurudwaras in Lahore so that they can “radicalize” Sikh devotees, sources said. Intelligence sources further said the alleged flight hijacker Ravinder Singh Pinka and his associates were meeting Sikh devotees from India, who have gone to Pakistan to observe the 100th anniversary of Saka Panja Sahib. Pinka deliberately clicked a photo with Giani Harpreet Singh. Later, however, when officials of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) were informed about Pinka, the video was immediately taken down from the SGPC website. Sources also said the Jathedar belonged to the entire community and nobody was prohibited from meeting him, and that Giani Harpreet Singh might not even know or recognize Pinka.
31-May-2022
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has strongly condemned the murders and said in a statement that, "This is not the first time that the Sikh community in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, (KP) has been targeted and we demand that the KP police identify and arrest the perpetrators promptly." The brutal incident took place on May 15, in which two Sikh traders--Kuljeet and Ranjit Singh got killed on the outskirts of Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province. This was the 'twelfth' such incident since 2014 when Sikhs were targeted by extremists in KP province alone.
10-Apr-2022
According to Pakistani media report, a life-size statue of the first ruler of the Sikh Empire Maharaja Ranjit Singh has been restored and is soon expected to be reinstalled at a safer place at Lahore Fort, months after it was last vandalised by an activist of a banned Islamist party.
08-Apr-2022
In a bid to facilitate a number of Sikh pilgrims arriving in Lahore from India via Wagah, the Pakistan Railways (PR) has decided to run nine special trains. The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) said that as many as 2,500 Sikh pilgrims will enter Pakistan on foot via the Wagah border to attend the Vaisakhi festival. Some pilgrims will also reach Pakistan from the UK and Canada too. At Wagah, the ETPB officers and Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) office bearers will welcome the pilgrims.
07-Apr-2022
The Pakistan High Commission has issued over 2,200 visas to Sikh pilgrims for Baisakhi on April 14.
01-Mar-2022
According to reports, Pakistani authorities have set up a joint committee to decide on the handing over of an over 100-year-old gurudwara in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province to the Evacuee Property Trust Board (EPTB) for its restoration and proper preservation. Officials said that the team constituted by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government would visit Sri Guru Singh Sabha gurudwara in Mansehra district before finalising its report and submitting it to the authorities.
04-Feb-2022
The Sikh community around the world condemned Pakistan for removing the statue of great Sikh general Hari Singh Nalwa in Haripur district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan.
30-Jan-2022
According to sources, the Pakistan government has taken various measures to motivate the devotees from India to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur Corridor, in large numbers even as the Project Management Unit (PMU), an exclusive department created under Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) for the management of Kartarpur Corridor is striving hard given the sinking economy of Pakistan.
13-Jan-2022
In a video, Sikh For Justice (SFJ)'s chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun said that the group has written to Imran Khan to support the Khalistan Referendum. In this video, Pannun is openly reaching out to Khan and has urged the Pakistani government to "diplomatically intervene" to support the Khalistan Referendum. In addition, he said, "SFJ has written a letter to Imran Khan and the message is to the people of Pakistan. Fall of Dhaka is past and we're asking PM Imran Khan to diplomatically intervene and support the Khalistan referendum. It will lead to fall of Delhi. Indira Gandhi had supported the Bangladesh war and Bangladesh was lost. It’s time for a payback in the same way. Khalistan Referendum will liberate Punjab from the Indian occupation." "Now is the time that India should be balkanized into small parts. You are raising the issue of Kashmir and its time to support Khalistan Referendum and Sikhs. Join hands with us and we're seeking diplomatic intervention," Pannun goes on to say in the video.
12-Jan-2022
According to reports, the Pakistani media is now openly backing the Sikhs For Justice (SFJ). An article in Radio Pakistan, published on January 12, has claimed that "India has launched a massive propaganda to malign the Sikhs for Justice". It further states that India is trying to get the SFJ banned in the United States. It added that India has also arrested Jaswinder Singh Multani, a member of the SFJ for his involvement in the recent Ludhiana court blast. The editorial claims that the United States administration has refused to accept India's attempts "of labeling the Khalistan movement as terrorism". Moreover, it also claims that other countries like United Kingdom, United States and Canada continued to allow SFJ and its referendum activities as an "expression of political opinion under the freedom of expression".
16-Jun-2021
Pakistan, citing the covid-19 pandemic, denied permission to a Sikh jatha (group of pilgrims) that was scheduled to visit it via the Attari-Wagah border on June 21. The jatha was to stay in Pakistan for 10 days and was to commemorate the death of Maharaja Ranjit Singh at Gurdwara Dehra Sahib in Lahore on June 29, besides visiting Sikh religious places.
15-Jun-2021
The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) president Bibi Jagir Kaur wrote a letter to the Pakistan government and urged to repair Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib built in the memory of Sri Guru Nanak Dev situated in Chakk Fateh Bhinder village in Daska tehsil of Sialkot district in Punjab provinces of Pakistan. The SGPC president has urged the Pakistan government to pay special attention towards the maintenance of Gurdwara Nanaksar Sahib in Sialkot district, by getting the shrine repaired immediately. "If the Pakistan government has any difficulty in the Sikh shrine, then the service of this shrine should be handed over to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Sri Amritsar. The SGPC is ready to do Sewa (voluntary service) of this place," she said.
06-Jun-2021
According to reports, Sikhs in Pakistan took out an anti-India rally in Nankana Sahib to condemn the attack on the Golden Temple by Indian forces in June 1984. Sources said that rally participants held placards and banners with anti-India slogans. The protesters led by pro-Khalistani leader Gopal Singh Chawla demanded of the United Nations to take action against Indian culprits involved in the massacre of Sikhs in 1984.
11-Oct-2023
The Chief Coroner Judge Thomas Teague KC on October 11 declared that he ‘does not have the power’ to order an investigation into the death of Avtar Singh Khanda, a Khalistani terrorist who succumbed to leukaemia at Birmingham City Hospital on June 15. Earlier, Barrister Michael Polak, representing Khanda's mother, Charanjit Kaur, and his sister, Jaspreet Kaur, formally petitioned the chief coroner to launch an inquiry into Khanda's passing, citing section S3 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009.
07-Oct-2023
The Sikh restaurant owner in London, UK, Harman Singh Kapoor, whose cars were allegedly vandalized by Khalistani elements recently, on October 7 claimed that he has been receiving threats for the past nine months. Kapoor, who is currently in New Delhi, stated that the pro-Khalistan elements are defaming Sikhs, Hindus, and India. He further noted that the individuals who attempted to harm him were Sikhs. Kapoor asserted, "They are maligning Sikhs, Hindus, and India. I earnestly desire for this conflict to cease. Regrettably, no concrete action was taken by the authorities; they merely documented my complaint. The police have yet to apprehend the culprits, allowing the Khalistanis to remain at large. It appears that Khalistanis enjoy support within the police force and are considered political assets in that region. In the event of an assault on a fellow countryman, the accused ought to be apprehended. Unfortunately, in my case, these Khalistanis were not taken into custody by the police."
06-Oct-2023
British Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak expressed his hope for a reduction in tensions within the India-Canada diplomatic dispute during a conversation with his Canadian counterpart, Justin Trudeau on October 6. The discussion primarily revolved around the ongoing standoff regarding the assassination of a Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June. Sunak reiterated the UK's commitment to upholding the rule of law, particularly in light of Canada's accusations of Indian involvement in the assassination of a wanted pro-Khalistan terrorist.
05-Oct-2023
Satyam Surana, a student at the London School of Economics (LSE), in an interview, described his actions during a recent pro-Khalistan protest at the Indian embassy on October 2 in London, United Kingdom (UK), where Khalistani protestors desecrated the Indian tricolour. Surana explained how he felt compelled to rescue and fold the Tricolour with reverence after it was desecrated during the protest. Satyam shared that his actions were driven by a sense of duty as an Indian, despite the presence of hostile extremists at the scene. The flag is currently held by the police as evidence.
03-Oct-2023
Scotland Police on October 3 stated that no criminal activity was established during its investigation into the incident in which the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Vikram Doraiswami, was denied entry and heckled at a gurdwara in Glasgow. Pro-Khalistan Sikh activists had denied him entry in response to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. The Glasgow Gurdwara released a statement condemning the disruption and reaffirming its openness to people from all communities and backgrounds.
02-Oct-2023
Pro-Khalistan protesters gathered outside the High Commission of India, waving anti-India placards and chanting slogans, in London, United Kingdom (UK) on October 2. The protest aimed to draw attention to Canadian Prime Minister Justin (PM) Trudeau's allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has strongly denied. The call for the protest stated that Sikhs intend to address domestic concerns, such as the questionable demise of Khalistani terrorist Avtar Singh Khanda.
02-Oct-2023
The Sikh Federation (UK) held a press conference in London on October 2, formally requesting the Chief Coroner for England and Wales to open an inquest into the death of Khalistani terrorist Avtar Singh Khanda. Khanda passed away in Birmingham in June 2023 while in London, United Kingdom (UK). The family's barrister, Michael Polak, highlighted suspicions surrounding Khanda's death, citing the timing and previous death threats with connections to Indian politics. West Midlands Police had initially stated that there were no suspicious circumstances, attributing the cause of death to acute leukemia or blood cancer in the post-mortem report.
02-Oct-2023
Khalistani terrorist Paramjeet Singh Pamma led anti-India chants outside the High Commission of India in London, United Kingdom (UK) on October 2. He was seen waving anti-India placards and chanting slogans. At the same venue, the Indian flag was defiled, and slogans against Indian Prime Ministers were raised. Pamma is wanted by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for promoting secessionism and radicalizing Punjab's youth. He is associated with banned Khalistani terror groups like Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF).
02-Oct-2023
Scotland Yard on October 2 arrested a British Sikh man on suspicion of 'violent disorder' in connection with the March 2023 attack on the Indian High Commission in London, United Kingdom (UK).
02-Oct-2023
According to reports, Gurcharan Singh, a member of the pro-Khalistani group Dal Khalsa, was arrested on October 2 for committing a hate crime against Gujaratis in the United Kingdom (UK) back on March 22. However, he was subsequently released on a personal bond. Gurucharan Singh was detained by UK law enforcement outside the Indian High Commission in London on October 2, where he was participating in anti-India demonstrations alongside other pro-Khalistan activists. During these protests, Gurcharan Singh had poured cow urine on the Indian tricolour flag. Additionally, a video had previously circulated on social media showing Gurcharan Singh verbally abusing a Gujarati Hindu in London during a demonstration against the Government of India's actions related to Amritpal Singh on March 22.
01-Oct-2023
The Sikh Federation United Kingdom (SFUK) decided to formally request a coroner’s inquest on October 2 into the death of Khalistani terrorist Avtar Singh Khanda, which occurred in Birmingham, UK June 2023. They alleged that Khanda had received threats from individuals connected to the Indian state and suspected foul play in his death. Although it was recorded as acute myeloid leukaemia, they believe it could be related to radiation poisoning. Pro-Khalistani Sikhs also plan to protest outside the Indian High Commission in London, UK on October 2, accusing the Indian government of involvement in the death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, Canada.
01-Oct-2023
Colin Bloom, a former adviser to the United Kingdom (UK) government and renowned author, recently expressed concerns about the rising Khalistan extremism in Western nations. He emphasized the need for collective action to address the aggressive behaviour among some members of the Sikh community, highlighting the failure of Western governments, including the UK, US, and Canada, to tackle this growing problem. He called for stronger efforts to protect Sikhs who distance themselves from extremism and pointed out the false appearance of legitimacy that some pro-Khalistan Sikh groups portray. This issue requires immediate attention to prevent further harm and division within multicultural societies.
30-Sep-2023
Two of the three individuals involved in the incident targeting Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami on September 29 in Glasgow, Scotland, have been identified as Shamsher Singh and Ranveer Singh, both based in London. Ranveer Singh was photographed at a shooting practice range with a rifle and wearing a T-shirt advocating for the release of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) terrorist Jagtar Singh Hawara, who was involved in the assassination plot against Chief Minister (CM) Beant Singh in 1995, resulting in multiple casualties. The Scottish police are currently in the process of gathering statements from all parties involved, and they are prepared to take appropriate action against the extremists.
30-Sep-2023
A Sikh restaurant owner, identified as Harman Singh Kapoor had his car shot at and vandalized by unidentified Khalistani assailants in West London, United Kingdom (UK), on September 30. Kapoor had previously spoken out against Khalistani elements in the UK. Insightuk2, a British Hindu and Indian group, asserted that the Kapoor family had been facing continuous threats of violence and rape from suspected Khalistan sympathizers. This incident follows ongoing threats and attacks against his family after they posted a video criticizing the Khalistan movement on social media.
30-Sep-2023
Leaders from the United Kingdom (UK), including Anne-Marie Trevelyan and Colin Bloom, on September 30 expressed concern about an incident in which Khalistani extremists prevented Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami from entering a gurdwara in Scotland on September 29. They called for action against these Khalistani extremist elements.
30-Sep-2023
The Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom (UK) on September 30 issued a statement after Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami was prevented from entering a Gurdwara in Glasgow, Scotland, on September 29, terming it a "disgraceful incident" in London, UK. The Glasgow Gurdwara issued a statement strongly condemning the disruptive behaviour that disrupted the peaceful proceedings of the Sikh place of worship. The incident was also reported to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Metropolitan Police.
30-Sep-2023
The Glasgow Guru Granth Sahib Gurudwara in Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (UK), on September 30, apologized to Indian High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami for the incident that occurred on September 29 when Khalistani extremists prevented him from entering the temple. The gurdwara committee assured Doraiswami that the individuals involved were not part of their regular congregation and invited him to visit again. Two of the extremists involved have been identified, including one with connections to the banned Khalistani terror outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), which was involved in a past assassination plot.
29-Sep-2023
The United Kingdom (UK)-based Sikh Federation on September 29 urged Sikhs in the UK to contact their Members of Parliament (MPs) for clarification from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Suella Braverman regarding the measures that the police will implement to safeguard Sikh activists potentially at risk, following the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. According to reports, on October 2, Sikhs in the UK also intend to stage a demonstration outside the Indian High Commission in London, UK. There are approximately 500,000 Sikhs in the UK, and India has expressed concerns about anti-India activities related to the Khalistan movement in the UK.
29-Sep-2023
Radical British Sikh activists prevented Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Vikram Doraiswami, from entering a gurdwara in Scotland, UK, on September 29. Sikh Youth UK posted a video of the incident on Instagram, showing the activists disputing with the gurdwara committee and attempting to approach Doraiswami's car, which eventually left. The activists expressed their opposition to Indian officials visiting gurdwaras in the UK due to recent tensions related to issues such as the deaths of Khalistani terrorists Hardeep Singh Nijjar and Avtar Singh Khanda, for which they hold India responsible.
29-Sep-2023
Khalistani extremists prevented the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Vikram Doraiswami, from entering a gurdwara in Scotland, UK, on September 29. They demanded the release of Jagtar Singh Johal, claiming that his arrest by Indian authorities was illegal. Jagtar Singh Johal, a UK-based individual with connections to the banned terrorist organization Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), is currently held in Delhi’s Tihar jail on terrorism charges.
27-Sep-2023
A sting operation conducted by Republic TV in London, United Kingdom (UK), revealed Pakistan's involvement in fomenting the Khalistan demand. In the video, Shamsher Singh, a founding member of the National Sikh Youth Federation (NSYF), openly acknowledged Pakistan's support for Khalistan and advocated armed struggle against India, while also claiming responsibility for the killings of police officers, politicians, and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) members.
26-Sep-2023
A Sikh councillor from West Dunbartonshire in Scotland, United Kingdom (UK), Gurpreet Johal, expressed concern over the challenges faced by the Sikh community in the UK following the death of his friend, Khalistani terrorist and the chief of the banned terrorist outfit Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Avtar Singh Khanda, in Birmingham, UK. Gurpreet Johal, whose brother, Jagtar Singh Johal, is currently detained in India due to connections to KLF, called for the UK to stand by its citizens and criticized India's alleged targeting of Sikhs.
20-Sep-2023
Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, a Member of Parliament (MP) from the United Kingdom (UK) Labour Party on September 19 mentioned that he had been contacted by many anxious, angry, and fearful Sikhs following the sharp escalation of the India-Canada diplomatic ties due to allegations levelled against India by Canadian Prime minister (PM) Justin Trudeau.
19-Sep-2023
Charanjeet Kaur, the mother of Avtar Singh Khanda, the slain Khalistani terrorist and chief of Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) in London, has refused to accept the explanation of his death from acute myeloid Leukemia and a blood clot, claiming he was poisoned. However, West Midlands Police stated that after conducting a comprehensive review in response to such speculations, they concluded that there were no suspicious circumstances related to Khanda’s death.
18-Sep-2023
A spokesperson from the United Kingdom (UK) government stated that they are maintaining close communication with their Canadian counterparts regarding the serious allegations. They mentioned that it would not be suitable to provide further comments while the Canadian authorities are still conducting their investigation. Additionally, a spokesperson for Rishi Sunak informed Reuters that Trudeau's remarks have not disrupted the India-UK trade talks.
15-Sep-2023
A Sikh man identified as Jaswant Singh Chail, who had informed guards at Windsor Castle on Christmas Day 2021 that he intended to assassinate Queen Elizabeth II, apologized to King Charles III and the royal family on September 15 at the Old Bailey court in London, United Kingdom (UK). Chail, who claimed revenge for the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar as his motive, cited embarrassment and shame for his actions.
15-Sep-2023
According to reports, approximately 15,000 Sikhs are expected to attend a three-day convention that commenced on September 15 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Sikh Federation United Kingdom (UK) in Smethwick, West Midlands, UK. The convention will cover topics including preparations for the next General Election, the arrest and detention of Khalistani terrorist Jagtar Singh Johal in India, and Sikh hate crimes in the UK. The Sikh Federation UK anticipates an increase in the number of Sikh Members of Parliament (MPs), especially within a potential Labour Government, and criticizes the Conservative party's handling of issues related to Sikhs and democratic rights.
12-Sep-2023
United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak confirmed that he had raised the case of Jagtar Singh Johal, a UK-based individual currently held in Delhi’s Tihar jail on terrorism charges, with Indian PM Narendra Modi during the G20 summit held in New Delhi. Gurpreet Johal, Jagtar's older brother, expressed scepticism toward the UK government's actions, believing they are all talk and no action. He insists that more decisive steps, such as calling for his release, are necessary. Gurpreet believes the UK government's hesitancy to take firmer action could be linked to its pursuit of a long-delayed Brexit promise: securing a free trade agreement (FTA) with India.
08-Sep-2023
Lord Ahmad, the United Kingdom’s (UK) Minister for Asia, on September 8, communicated the UK government's decision through a letter to not call for the release of British citizen Jagtar Singh Johal, who is being held on terrorism charges at Tihar jail in New Delhi. In the letter addressed to Johal's Member of Parliament (MP), Martin Docherty-Hughes, Lord Ahmad cited concerns that such a call might be perceived as interference in the Indian judicial process and could impede consular assistance. Earlier, over 70 MPs had urged British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to request Johal's release during his visit to Delhi for the G20 summit.
06-Sep-2023
United Kingdom Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak on September 6 assured India that the UK condemns all forms of extremism and is committed to countering pro-Khalistan activities. In an email interview with PTI, he emphasized the importance of lawful protests without violence. This reassurance comes ahead of Sunak's visit to India for the G20 summit, with the aim of strengthening India-UK ties despite concerns over the Khalistan issue.
06-Sep-2023
Over 70 Members of Parliament (MPs) from various United Kingdom (UK) political parties, on September 6, penned a letter calling on Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak to advocate for the immediate release of British Sikh detainee Jagtar Singh Johal during his visit to India for the G20 summit. Johal has been imprisoned in India for over five years on connections to the banned terrorist organization Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) and is currently held in Tihar Jail in Delhi.
04-Sep-2023
According to reports, on September 4, Sir Keir Starmer, the leader of the United Kingdom (UK) opposition Labour Party, demoted Indian-origin shadow minister Preet Kaur Gill among others, reportedly over concerns regarding her alleged links to pro-Khalistani extremists. Gill's association with the Khalistan movement, connections to the Smethwick Gurudwara, which is dedicated to Khalistani terrorists and the terror group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), as well as her support for banned groups like the International Sikh Youth Federation (ISYF), stirred controversy. Furthermore, she faced criticism for a controversial tweet and photographs with pro-Khalistani activists, ultimately leading to her removal from her position.
04-Sep-2023
The United Kingdom (UK) Minister for Local Government and Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities, Lee Rowley, on September 4 responded to a question from UK Member of Parliament (MP) Navendu Mishra, stating that anti-Hindu hatred is abhorrent and has no place in UK communities.
25-Aug-2023
A man of Punjabi origin, Sundeep Singh Rai, and his accomplice, Billy Hayre, on August 25 were sentenced to 12 years in prison each for conspiring to smuggle banned drugs into the United Kingdom (UK) at Wolverhampton Crown Court in Wolverhampton, UK. They were part of an organized crime group that attempted to bring 30 kilograms of cocaine and 30 kilograms of amphetamine from Mexico to the UK via a cargo plane. The National Crime Agency (NCA) led the investigation, which resulted in their arrests and convictions. The NCA emphasized its commitment to disrupting the supply.
21-Aug-2023
According to reports, the death of Avtar Singh Khanda, the United Kingdom (UK)-based chief of the Khalistani militant outfit Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), has sparked conspiracy theories of foul play. However, UK authorities have confirmed that his death resulted from Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) with no suspicious elements involved. Khalistani separatists are propagating these conspiracy theories to fuel division and recruit followers. It is crucial to debunk misinformation and guard against the manipulation of facts for political agendas.
17-Aug-2023
The Metropolitan Police on August 17 confirmed that Gurpreet Singh, an Indian Sikh man, has been charged with stabbing two men and possessing a knife in connection to an altercation that took place on August 15 between pro-Khalistan activists and a group of Indian-origin men waving the Indian tricolour on Southall Broadway in West London, United Kingdom (UK). Singh has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Isleworth Crown Court on September 14. Another man, who was also arrested in connection with this case, was later released on police bail pending further inquiries.
15-Aug-2023
Two Indian men were injured in a violent clash that erupted between a group of Indian men commemorating India’s Independence Day and a small assembly of around five British Sikhs advocating for Khalistan in West London, United Kingdom (UK) on August 15.
15-Aug-2023
A violent clash erupted on August 15 between hundreds of Indians celebrating Independence Day and a group of around five pro-Khalistan British Sikhs outside Southall in West London, United Kingdom (UK). The Indian men were raising slogans in support of India, while the Khalistan supporters declined to participate and were carrying Khalistan flags.
14-Aug-2023
The chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, claimed in a video released on August 14 to have raised £250,000 (INR 2.6 crore) for a Khalistan Referendum vote in Scotland in 2024. This claim comes in response to the Indian government's crackdown on Sikh Khalistani activists in the United Kingdom (UK). This development follows UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat's visit to India, during which he announced a recent allocation of £95,000 (INR 1 crore) to enhance the UK's capacity to combat pro-Khalistan extremism.
12-Aug-2023
The funeral of Avtar Singh Khanda, the United Kingdom (UK) based chief of the Khalistani militant outfit Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), took place in Smethwick, West Midlands, UK on August 12. The event was attended by approximately 1,000 people who were dressed in orange attire, carried Khalistan flags, and chanted pro-Khalistani slogans. The funeral procession featured a white carriage bearing Khanda's coffin. On top of the carriage, white wreaths were arranged to spell out "Khalistan" on one side and "Zindabaad" on the other, with two yellow "Khalistan flags" attached. His immediate family, including his mother Charanjit Kaur and sister Jaspreet Kaur from Punjab, were denied UK visas and thus watched the funeral via livestream.
10-Aug-2023
United Kingdom (UK) based chief of Khalistani militant outfit Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), Avtar Singh Khanda's funeral will be held at the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Smethwick in West Midlands in the UK on August 12. Khanda passed away on June 15, 2023 in Birmingham, UK.
02-Aug-2023
The Sikh Federation in United Kingdom (UK) on August 2 accused the Indian investigation agency National Investigation Agency (NIA) of intimidating and targeting relatives of prominent pro-Khalistan leaders living abroad, including British Sikhs after the NIA raided homes of Khalistani leaders linked to Khalsa Aid, Federation of Sikh Organisations (FSO ) and Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) among others, in an attempt to uncover the conspiracy behind the attack on the Indian High Commission in London, UK.
31-Jul-2023
Sikh Press Association on July 31 announced that the funeral Avtar Singh Khanda, the United Kingdom (UK) based head of Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), will take place at Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick in Sandwell, UK on August 5. Khanda's family in India, including his mother Charanjit Kaur and sister Jaspreet Kaur from Moga, Punjab, were unable to repatriate his body to Punjab, and denied visas to travel to the UK for his last rites.
25-Jul-2023
West Midlands police on July 25 confirmed that they are not investigating the death of Avtar Singh Khanda, the United Kingdom (UK) based head of Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), as it was not deemed suspicious. Khanda passed away at Birmingham City Hospital, UK on June 15 due to terminal blood cancer. Pro-Khalistan groups had speculated that he was deliberately poisoned, but the hospital confirmed otherwise.
24-Jul-2023
An investigation by the British tabloid The Daily Mail on July 24 revealed that some United Kingdom (UK) lawyers are allegedly ‘coaching’ illegal Indian migrants to fake asylum claims by pretending to be persecuted Khalistanis. The undercover investigation exposed 40 law firms involved in this activity. Several lawyers suggested false narratives of farmers' protests held in India in 2021, Khalistan separatist protests led by Amritpal Singh, and threats from Indian security forces. Meanwhile, in response to the investigation, UK Prime Minister (PM) Rishi Sunak vowed on July 25 to tackle illegal immigration and secure deals with France and Albania for better border control.
23-Jul-2023
India has approved a 'limited diplomatic immunity waiver' for its diplomats in the United Kingdom (UK) concerning the investigation into the pro-Khalistan attack on the Indian mission on March 19. The waiver will apply during the trial stage. Earlier, the London Police requested the immunity waiver for witnesses and complainants at the Indian mission. Indian missions in the United States (US), Canada, and Australia have also faced attacks by pro-Khalistan supporters. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is probing the London attack and has released images of suspects involved in vandalizing the high commission. The Indian government is working with key countries to counter Sikh radicals' network in various Western capitals.
08-Jul-2023
The pro-Khalistan protest outside the Indian High Commission in London, United Kingdom (UK) on July 8 concluded with a low number of participants. A modest gathering of 30-40 individuals supporting Khalistan was witnessed between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm local time on July 8. The security in the area was beefed up with the UK police calling in additional forces to the spot. The demonstration, organized in response to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, lasted for a shorter duration than planned. Protesters displayed banners blaming India's High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami and Consul General in Birmingham, Shashank Vikram for Nijjar's death, along with posters expressing support for Pakistan.
06-Jul-2023
James Cleverly, the foreign secretary of the United Kingdom (UK), on July 6 expressed the UK government's strong disapproval of any direct assaults on the High Commission of India in London, stating that such actions would be deemed entirely unacceptable. He also stated that the UK government has communicated to the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami and the Government of India that ensuring the safety of staff at the High Commission is of utmost importance.
05-Jul-2023
On July 5, a number of anonymous Twitter accounts surfaced, sharing posters created by Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), which were promoting a "Kill India" rally in London, United Kingdom (UK) on July 8. The posters falsely implicated two Indian diplomats, Vikram Kumar Doraiswami, the High Commissioner of India to the UK, and Dr. Shashank Vikram, Consul General of India in Birmingham, UK, in the alleged assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist and the leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). Additionally, one of the tweets included a video by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of SFJ, accusing Indian diplomats worldwide of being accountable for Nijjar's murder.
16-Jun-2023
According to Pakistani sources, on June 16, a day after the death of Khalistani separatist Avtar Singh Khanda, the Sikh community in the United Kingdom (UK) demands a full investigation into his death. Khanda was admitted to a Birmingham hospital after complaining of uneasiness and the cause of his death is unclear. Khalsa Aid International's CEO, Ravinder Singh, has urged the UK Police to conduct a thorough investigation and produce a coroner's report regarding the death Khanda. He also said that Khanda's family has also requested a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death. The Sikh community doubts the circumstances surrounding his death and requests a probe to ensure it is not politically motivated. Speculation about poisoning has emerged, but facts are yet to be confirmed.