Washington/Ottawa, August 17, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
A recent call by designated terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun for the formation of a so-called “Khalistan Army” and “Sikh Homeland Security” force, along with videos purportedly showing Sikh men undergoing firearms training in Canada, has raised concerns over the possible impact of such rhetoric on the Sikh diaspora.
Pannun, the general counsel of US-based Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has also called on diaspora Sikhs to participate in a so-called Khalistan “Referendum” in Indianapolis, Indiana. He has linked the campaign to the proposed “Sikh Homeland Security” force.
The developments have prompted criticism that increasingly militant rhetoric could encourage vulnerable young people to become involved in firearms, organised crime or extremist activities. A recent report by Khalsa Vox argued that such messaging could further expose sections of the Sikh community to security and social risks.
The report pointed to concerns over criminal networks operating in parts of Canada, particularly in the Greater Toronto Area and British Columbia, where police have investigated cases involving drug trafficking, extortion, shootings and illegal firearms. It argued that the combination of political radicalisation and criminal activity could create additional risks for Sikh communities.
Canadian authorities have previously identified Khalistani extremism as a national security concern. The Canadian government’s terrorism-related assessments have also documented concerns involving violent extremist organisations and financing networks linked to Khalistani extremism.
Pannun and SFJ have long campaigned for an independent Khalistan through their so-called referendum process. India has designated Pannun a terrorist and banned SFJ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. The National Investigation Agency has also prosecuted individuals in India in cases allegedly linked to SFJ activities.
The Khalsa Vox report called on Canadian and US authorities to scrutinise any overt display of paramilitary activity and investigate networks that could draw young people into transnational criminal activity.
It also urged Sikh community leaders, gurdwaras and families to reject the glorification of firearms and violence, arguing that education, entrepreneurship and peaceful civic participation should take precedence over drugs, gang activity and radicalisation.
The latest developments come amid continuing international scrutiny of Pannun and his activities, as governments in India, Canada and the US remain engaged with wider security concerns surrounding transnational organised crime, extremism and the Khalistan movement.
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