Indian Govt Cracks Down on Khalistan Propaganda: Over 10,000 URLs Blocked

This news collection, which explains the Indian government’s aggressive actions and initiatives against separatism, reveals important bases for national security and international political exchanges.

1. Background: The Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) Organization

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) is an organization founded in 2007 in the United States, with the primary objective of establishing a separate nation called Khalistan for Sikhs.

• Khalistan Agenda: The organization envisions creating a separate Sikh nation comprising the Indian state of Punjab.
• Global Operations: SFJ’s activities extend beyond India, particularly in countries like the USA, Canada, and the UK, where Sikh diaspora communities reside.
• Referendum 2020 Campaign: Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, SFJ’s prominent leader, initiated the “Referendum 2020” campaign through social media to mobilize support for Khalistan and organize anti-India events in foreign nations.

2. Government’s Countermeasures

Legislative Actions and Bans:

• Under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA):
  • In 2019, the Indian government designated SFJ as an unlawful organization under UAPA.
  • Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was declared a designated terrorist under the same law.
  • The ban on SFJ was extended for five more years in July 2023 due to its continued anti-India activities and links to violent extremist incidents.

Social Media Restrictions:

• Blocking of 10,500 URLs:
  Over the last three years, approximately 10,500 URLs promoting Khalistan and related propaganda have been blocked.
  • Legal Framework: The URLs were blocked under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act, based on recommendations from the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Electronics and IT.
• Account Restrictions:
  • 2022: 6,775 social media accounts were blocked.
  • 2023: 12,483 accounts were blocked.
  • 2024 (till September): 8,821 accounts have been restricted.
  • Platform-wise Breakdown:
    • YouTube: 2022 – 809 accounts; 2023 – 862 accounts; 2024 – 540 accounts.
    • Instagram: 2022 – 355 accounts; 2023 – 814 accounts; 2024 – 1,029 accounts.
    • X (formerly Twitter): 2022 – 3,417 accounts; 2023 – 3,772 accounts; 2024 – 2,950 accounts.

3. International Dynamics

India-Canada Relations:

• Anti-India Activities:
  Canada has been identified as a hub for Khalistani extremists, with SFJ conducting events like anti-India referendums. Indian diplomats have also faced threats in Canada.
  • Modi’s Criticism: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly criticized Canada for harboring anti-India elements.
• Escalating Diplomatic Tensions:
  Diplomatic relations between the two countries have been strained, with India accusing Canada of tolerating extremist activities under the guise of free speech.

Activities in Other Countries:

• SFJ has organized anti-India gatherings and campaigns in the US and the UK, leveraging the diaspora to promote separatist propaganda.
• Social media platforms have been key tools in spreading their message.

4. The Indian Government’s Firm Stand:

• Official Statements:
  The government has emphasized that blocking such online content is critical to preserving India’s national security and sovereignty.
• Focus on Sovereignty:
  Measures against Khalistani elements send a strong message about India’s commitment to its territorial integrity.

5. Political and Security Experts’ Opinions:

• Bolstering National Security:
  Experts see these actions as crucial to protecting India from divisive forces and maintaining national unity.
• Addressing Global Pressures:
  India’s proactive approach is viewed as a balanced response to international challenges, especially in handling extremism supported by diaspora communities.

Conclusion:

The Indian government’s decisive actions—blocking URLs, banning extremist organizations, and strengthening social media regulations—highlight its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation’s integrity. These measures are seen as vital in countering separatist propaganda and ensuring long-term national security.

Indian Govt Cracks Down on Khalistan Propaganda: Over 10,000 URLs Blocked | My Bharat Guru