Prominent Sikh separatist Pannun says FBI told him of new
FBI investigates new warnings
The Los Angeles charges tied the group to the 2023 assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, another prominent Sikh separatist and a friend of Pannun. Nijjar was killed by gunmen outside his gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, in June 2023.
Earlier plot allegations
Pannun holds American and Canadian citizenship. India has denied involvement in Nijjar’s killing and the alleged attempt on Pannun’s life, and has described Sikh separatists as “terrorists,” saying they pose threats to India’s security.
Edmonton referendum planned
Pannun’s organization, Sikhs for Justice, plans to hold a non-binding referendum in Edmonton, Canada, on Oct. 18. Sikhs have been invited to vote on whether Punjab, a northern Indian province, should become independent and be renamed “Khalistan.” In the Los Angeles indictment, Satinderjit Singh Brar, described as a childhood friend of Bishnoi, is accused of directing the group’s North American operations and ordering Nijjar’s assassination.
Key points
- Pannun says the FBI is investigating new threats to his life.
- Manhattan prosecutors charged Nikhil Gupta and Vikash Yadav over an alleged plot against Pannun.
- Sikhs for Justice plans an Oct. 18 referendum in Edmonton on Punjab’s independence.
- A Los Angeles indictment accuses Satinderjit Singh Brar of directing operations and ordering Nijjar’s assassination.