In a controversial development, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the founder of the banned Khalistani group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), has publicly endorsed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s recent comments about the Sikh community. Pannun’s endorsement came as Gandhi continued his US trip, raising concerns over religious freedom for Sikhs in India. This has triggered a political backlash in India, with the BJP condemning Gandhi’s statements.
BulletsIn
- Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, leader of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), endorsed Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on Sikhs.
- Gandhi made the comments during his ongoing US trip, addressing Sikh issues and religious freedom.
- Pannun described Gandhi’s statements as “bold and pioneering,” aligning with SFJ’s stance on Sikh rights.
- Pannun linked Gandhi’s comments to SFJ’s Punjab Independence Referendum for a separate Khalistan.
- Rahul Gandhi’s statements raised concerns about the threat to Sikh identity and religious practices in India.
- Gandhi questioned whether Sikhs would continue to enjoy freedoms like wearing turbans and kadas in India.
- BJP leaders, including Hardeep Singh Puri and Ravi Shankar Prasad, condemned Gandhi’s remarks.
- Puri criticized Gandhi for promoting a “dangerous narrative” abroad, defending the government’s record on Sikh safety.
- BJP accused Congress of mishandling Sikh issues, referencing the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.
- Pannun’s endorsement has heightened tensions over diaspora politics and Indian national issues.
