Gurpatwant Singh Pannun Threatens Attacks on Ram Temple, Other Hindu Sites

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a separatist leader designated as a terrorist by India, has released a video threatening attacks on Hindu temples, including the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The video message, circulated on Monday, warns of imminent actions slated for November 16 and 17.

"We will shake the foundations of Ayodhya, the birthplace of the violent Hindutva ideology," Pannun stated in the video. He also cautioned Indians residing in Canada to distance themselves from these planned activities, implying potential risks.

The video, attributed to the banned organization Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), includes clips of Prime Minister Narendra Modi participating in a prayer ceremony at the Ram Temple during its inauguration in January. Reports suggest that the video was filmed in the Brampton area of Canada.

Previous Threats and International Responses

Earlier this month, Pannun issued warnings to passengers traveling with Air India between November 1 and 19, a period he noted coincides with the 40th anniversary of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Similar threats were made in previous years, raising concerns among authorities and the public.

The United States recently urged India to ensure accountability in investigations related to Pannun, particularly concerning a purported murder-for-hire plot. The U.S. government emphasized the importance of cooperation between nations to address security threats and uphold the rule of law.

Background on Gurpatwant Singh Pannun

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is a U.S.-based lawyer and the founder of Sikhs for Justice, an organization banned in India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The Indian government has labeled him a designated terrorist due to his involvement in advocating for a separate Sikh homeland, referred to as "Khalistan."

Pannun has been involved in various campaigns promoting the Khalistan movement, which seeks to create an independent state for Sikhs in the Punjab region. His activities have drawn international attention and have been a point of contention between India and countries where he operates.

Government and Public Reactions

Indian authorities have condemned Pannun's statements, labeling them as attempts to incite violence and disturb communal harmony. Security agencies are reportedly on high alert, and measures are being taken to ensure the safety of religious sites and the public.

The public has expressed concern over the threats, with many calling for stronger actions against individuals promoting separatism and violence. Community leaders are urging calm and emphasizing the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence.

International Implications

The ongoing activities of separatist leaders like Pannun have strained diplomatic relations between India and countries where these individuals reside. India has been seeking cooperation from nations such as Canada and the United States to curb the activities of groups that it considers a threat to its national security.

Conclusion

The threats made by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun have raised alarms both domestically and internationally. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely, and efforts are underway to ensure security and prevent any potential incidents. The situation underscores the challenges faced in addressing separatist movements and the importance of international collaboration in countering extremism.