India Extends Ban on Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) for Five More Years

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in India has decided to extend the ban on the terrorist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) for an additional five years, starting from July 10, 2024. This decision was made under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, due to the group’s involvement in activities that threaten India’s sovereignty and security.

According to a notification from the Home Ministry, SFJ has been found to support violent extremism and militancy in Punjab and other areas, aiming to create a separate state called Khalistan. The notification states that SFJ is in close contact with militant outfits and activists, encouraging secessionist activities and attempts to destabilize the government.

The MHA expressed concerns that if SFJ’s activities are not curbed, the group may escalate its subversive actions, spread anti-national sentiments, and incite violence in the country. The ban on SFJ is effective immediately and will remain in force for five years unless the government decides to revoke or modify it.

This move is seen as a significant step by the Indian government to crack down on separatist and militant activities within the country. A similar ban was issued against SFJ in 2019.