Centre bans pro-Khalistani Sikh group

In a major decision, the Union Cabinet on Wednesday banned a US-based secessionist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) that supports the cause of Khalistan movement.

The Centre took the decision to classify SFJ as an 'unlawful association' in consultation with state governments, including Punjab. The Cabinet has called the group as 'unlawful' under Provision 3(1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967.

The central government stated that several Sikh bodies had raised an alarm and expressed concerns over the secessionist activities carried out by SFJ. It was alleged that they wanted to use the Kartarpur Corridor for propagating their secessionist ideologies.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh hailed the government's decision. The Chief Minister's office described it as the first step towards protecting the nation from the anti-India/secessionist designs of the ISI-backed organisation.

SFJ, which was formed in 2007, has been active for the last four years. It has also been pushing for Referendum 2020 for the self-determination of Sikhs as part of its separatist agenda.