NIA Files Case Against US-Based Khalistani Leader Over Independence Day Threat

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has registered a case against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a US-based Khalistani leader, for allegedly offering a reward to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from hoisting the national flag on India’s Independence Day and for “spreading disaffection among Sikhs against India.”

According to the FIR, Pannun — general counsel for the banned outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) — made the announcement on August 10 during a “Meet the Press” event at the Lahore Press Club in Pakistan. In a video address from Washington, he reportedly offered ₹11 crore to “Sikh soldiers” who would prevent Modi from unfurling the tricolour at the Red Fort.

The FIR also alleges that Pannun unveiled a map proposing a new Khalistan, including Punjab, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh, and claimed that SFJ had formed a “Shaheed Jatha” to act against India. The NIA said these actions “disrupt sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of India.”

The case, filed under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), names Pannun and “other unknown persons,” following a directive from the Union Home Ministry.