Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a designated ‘individual terrorist’ was booked under the anti-terror law by the National Investigation Agency on the grounds of attempting to target and threaten the transportation sector in India. Pannun had released a video message in which he threatened to disrupt Air India’s operations and urged Sikhs to avoid flying on the airline after November 19.
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NIA’s Charges
The NIA’s case against Pannun is based on sections 120B, 153A, and 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), as well as sections 10, 13, 16, 17, 18, 18B, and 20 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA). These charges relate to criminal conspiracy, promoting enmity between different groups on the grounds of religion, and committing acts intended to cause disaffection towards the government of India.
Pannun’s Accusations
Image source : Twitter
In his video message, he accused Air India of being complicit in the Indian government’s alleged suppression of Sikhs. He also claimed that the airline was planning to transport Indian forces to carry out “genocide” against Sikhs in Punjab. His threats caused widespread concern among Air India’s passengers and employees, and the airline was forced to take additional security measures.
The NIA’s action against Pannun is the latest in a series of steps taken by the Indian government to crack down on Khalistani separatist groups. In 2019, the SFJ was declared an unlawful association under the UAPA, and he was designated as an individual terrorist. The Indian government has also requested the extradition of Pannun from the United States, where he currently resides.
Serious Threat to India’s Aviation Industry
Pannun’s threats to Air India are a serious matter that has the potential to disrupt India’s aviation industry and cause fear and anxiety among the public. The NIA’s action is a necessary step to uphold the law and protect the safety of Air India’s passengers and employees.
Image source : Team Newsable
Charges in the United States
In addition to the NIA’s case, Pannun is also facing charges in the United States for allegedly making false statements in connection with his immigration application. The United States has also designated Pannun as a specially designated global terrorist (SDGT), which means that his assets have been frozen and he is prohibited from receiving financial support from U.S. persons.
Growing Threat of Khalistani Groups
Pannun’s case highlights the growing threat posed by Khalistani separatist groups to India’s national security. The Indian government must continue to take firm action against these groups to protect the country’s unity and integrity.
The prosecution has proven beyond a reasonable doubt that he has committed the following crimes:
- Criminal conspiracy to disrupt Air India’s operations
- Encouraging hostility between various groups based solely on religious beliefs
- Committing acts intended to cause disaffection towards the government of India
Pannun’s actions were motivated by hatred and a desire to inflict harm on innocent people. He has shown no remorse for his crimes and continues to pose a threat to public safety. The NIA’s action against Pannun is a necessary step to uphold the law and protect the safety of the public.
