NIA Files FIR Against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun Over ₹11 Crore Independence Day Plot
- William John
- Sep 24
- 2 min read
Introduction
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has registered an FIR against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, legal advisor of the banned group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), for allegedly offering ₹11 crore to prevent Prime Minister Narendra Modi from hoisting the national flag on Independence Day 2025. The agency cited promotion of Khalistan and anti-India activities as the basis of the case.
Details of the FIR
The FIR, registered on August 19, 2025, notes that Pannun conducted a “Meet the Press” event at the Lahore Press Club on August 10, addressing journalists via video link from Washington, US.
During the event, Pannun challenged India’s sovereignty over Punjab and promoted Khalistan.
He unveiled a map titled “Delhi Banayga Khalistan”, covering Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Delhi, as part of SFJ’s referendum campaign.
According to the FIR:
“He offered Rs. 11 crore to Sikh soldiers who would prevent the Prime Minister from hoisting the Tricolor at Red Fort on 15th August 2025.”
Background on Gurpatwant Singh Pannun
Declared a designated ‘individual terrorist’ by India’s Ministry of Home Affairs in July 2020.
Faces multiple terror-related cases across India.
Heads SFJ, an outlawed organisation in India, with a history of promoting separatism and Khalistan-related campaigns internationally.
Related Incidents
On September 23, 2025, Canadian police arrested Inderjeet Singh Gosal, a member of SFJ, on firearms charges.
Gosal was linked to Hardeep Singh Nijjar, another Khalistani operative shot dead in British Columbia in 2023, highlighting SFJ’s cross-border operations.
Implications
National Security Threat: The case underscores ongoing threats posed by Khalistani separatists even outside India.
Global Operations of SFJ: Events conducted from Pakistan and the US reflect the transnational network of the banned outfit.
Legal & Investigative Actions: The FIR empowers the NIA to investigate Pannun’s activities, track financing, and curb attempts to influence Indian military or law enforcement personnel.
Conclusion
The FIR against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is a strong counter-terrorism move by Indian authorities, targeting cross-border attempts to disrupt national ceremonies. The NIA’s action highlights vigilance against foreign-backed separatist agendas and reinforces India’s commitment to safeguarding sovereignty and national security.
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