In a new warning, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the founder of the banned separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has urged passengers to avoid flying on Air India flights between November 1 and 19. This period coincides with the 40th anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, which Pannun refers to as the “Sikh genocide.” He has suggested that an attack could take place on Air India flights during these dates, heightening concerns amid an already tense security environment.
Pannun’s latest threat is not the first of its kind. The Khalistani terrorist, who holds dual citizenship in Canada and the United States, has previously issued warnings targeting Indian entities. In November 2023, Pannun warned that Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport would be renamed and closed on November 19, urging passengers to avoid Air India flights on that day. His current threat comes at a time of heightened diplomatic tension between India and Canada, following accusations by the Canadian government that India was involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim India has vehemently denied.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, India has been experiencing a surge in bomb threat hoaxes against airlines. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has confirmed that nearly 100 bomb threats have been made against flights in just one week since October 14. As a result, the government is implementing stricter security measures, including updating regulations to ensure individuals responsible for such threats are placed on no-fly lists.
Pannun’s threats are seen as part of his ongoing campaign to destabilize the Indian state and promote the cause of Khalistani separatism. His group, SFJ, was banned in India in 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and Pannun himself has been designated a terrorist by India’s Ministry of Home Affairs since July 2020. SFJ advocates for the creation of an independent Sikh state, Khalistan, and has been involved in several anti-national activities.
In addition to targeting airlines, Pannun has issued a series of threats against Indian political and security figures. In December 2023, he threatened an attack on the Indian Parliament, coinciding with the anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attack on the institution. Earlier in 2024, he also called on gangsters to target Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav on Republic Day.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has charged Pannun with multiple offences, including criminal conspiracy and promoting religious enmity. His continued threats, coupled with the diplomatic strain between India and Canada, have kept tensions high, forcing Indian authorities to remain on alert for any potential attacks.
As the 40th anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots approaches, security agencies are bracing for potential disruptions, with airlines like Air India and major transport hubs under increased scrutiny.
