Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has issued threats targeting Hindu temples, including the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. In a video released by the banned Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) outfit, Pannun warned of an attack on November 16 and 17. The video, reportedly recorded in Brampton, Canada, is aimed at inciting violence against Hindu places of worship.
In his statement, Pannun said, "We will shake the foundations of Ayodhya, birthplace of the violent Hindutva ideology" -- a direct threat to one of India's most sacred sites. The video shows images of Prime Minister Modi praying in the Ram Temple during its inauguration in January this year. Pannun has also warned Indians in Canada to stay away from Khalistani attacks on Hindu temples.
Last month, Pannun cautioned passengers against flying on Air India flights between November 1 and 19. Pannun claimed the period coincided with what he called the 40th anniversary of the 1984 "Sikh genocide".
Pannun has also called for violence against Indian diplomats, indicating a broader attempt to provoke unrest and tension within Indian and expatriate communities.
Pannun's SFJ has been involved in various anti-India activities, aiming to promote the idea of a separate Sikh state. Pannu has issued several incendiary statements aimed at destabilising communal harmony.
Pannun was designated as a terrorist under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) in July 2020. The government of India has also issued multiple warrants for his arrest. However, he continues to function from the United States and Canada.
In recent years, attacks on Hindu temples and threats against the Hindu community in Canada from radical Khalistani elements have increased. There has also been an uptick in acts of vandalism, hate graffiti on temple walls, and public threats against the community.
Last week, pro-Khalistani protesters clashed with devotees at the Hindu Sabha temple in Brampton and disrupted a consular event co-organised by the temple authorities and the Indian Consulate.
Despite repeated concerns raised by India, the response from Canadian authorities regarding pro-Khalistani activities has been tepid. India has urged stronger measures to counter radical elements. However, Canadian responses have often been viewed as insufficient. This has been at the heart of the strain in ties between India and Canada.
