Punjab: NIA raids suspects linked to proscribed terror outfit Sikhs for Justice

THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK

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New Delhi, Nov 22: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) executed raids on Wednesday at the residences of individuals in Punjab suspected of affiliations with the proscribed organisation Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), categorised as an ‘unlawful association,’ sources stated.

The ongoing searches are being conducted in a tightly coordinated effort with the Punjab Police.

The NIA investigators initiated the raids early on Wednesday morning following specific information indicating that certain individuals were connected to the SFJ.

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The action follows the NIA’s announcement two days ago to file a case against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a ‘listed individual terrorist’ associated with the SFJ. This decision was prompted by a recent viral video in which Pannun threatened Air India passengers and the airline with a worldwide blockade, proposing the closure of its operations starting November 19.

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Pannun has been booked by the NIA under several sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967 and the Indian Penal Code.

NIA said in a statement that “Pannun is the the self-proclaimed General Counsel’ of the outlawed ‘unlawful Association’ SFJ, and is in the eye of the storm yet again following the release and circulation of video messages on various social media platforms urging the Sikhs not to fly on Air India planes on and after November 19 claiming threat to their lives if they flew on Air India.”

Pannun also issued a threat that Air India would be prevented from conducting operations on a global scale.

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A high alert and investigations by security forces in Canada, India, and some other countries where Air India operates have been prompted by Pannun’s claims and threats.