Archive · 16 Sep 2026
SFJ Escalates Punjab Propaganda Campaign Before Assembly Polls
Officials say a banned group called Sikhs for Justice is increasing its posters and graffiti in Punjab.
The messages support Khalistan, a separate state the group advocates.
Authorities say the activity is happening before Punjab’s next Assembly election.
They allege that local people are being paid Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 for each poster.
Workers are also reportedly asked to make videos and send them to Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Officials fear the videos could spread anger and persuade more young people to join.
They also say false messages about religion could create conflict between communities.
Security agencies are concerned that these activities could distract them while drones allegedly bring weapons and drugs from Pakistan.
Intelligence officials allege Sikhs for Justice is expanding pro-Khalistan graffiti and poster activity across rural Punjab.
Officials say local operatives are paid Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 for each propaganda poster.
Recruits are reportedly instructed to record their activities and send videos to SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Authorities allege the campaign aims to spread misinformation, create communal tensions and attract young recruits.
Delhi Police recently arrested three men over alleged SFJ-linked graffiti at the Singhu border, while officials cited concerns about Pakistan-based drone smuggling.
- Who
- Sikhs for Justice, allegedly acting on instructions from its chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, and local operatives in Punjab.
- What
- An alleged campaign involving pro-Khalistan posters, wall graffiti, vandalism, videos and disinformation.
- When
- Ahead of Punjab Assembly elections scheduled for next year; three men were arrested last week over related graffiti.
- Where
- Across rural Punjab, with a related graffiti incident reported at the Singhu border.
- Why
- Officials say the campaign seeks to spread pro-Khalistan messaging and religious disinformation, create communal tensions, recruit young people and divert security agencies from other threats.
- Group
- Sikhs for Justice, described in the articles as a banned pro-Khalistan outfit.
- Leader
- Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, described in the articles as a proscribed terrorist.
- Reported payment
- Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 for each propaganda poster.
- Target area
- Rural parts of Punjab.
- Reported activities
- Putting up secessionist posters, painting pro-Khalistan wall graffiti and recording the activities.
- Recent arrests
- Delhi Police arrested three men over pro-Khalistan graffiti at the Singhu border ahead of the BRICS Summit.
- Additional security concern
- Officials say sophisticated drones from Pakistan have been dropping arms, ammunition and narcotics.
