Khalistan elements will spiral further out of control abroad: Intel

The Khalistan menace is spiralling out of control, with several incidents being reported from across the globe.

While radical Sikh leader, Amritpal Singh continues to evade arrest, there have been incidents in which a journalist has been attached in the United States, by pro-Khalistanis.

India has often complained about certain foreign nations backing pro-Khalistan elements. Due to this issue, the diplomatic relations with Canada in particular have been uncomfortable.

India has a lodged a protest with both the US and UK over the vandalism of Indian missions and summoned Canadian High Commissioner, Cameron MacKay. The Indian foreign ministry has sought an explanation from the High Commissioner how pro-Khalistan how pro-Khalistan supporters were allowed to do this even in the presence of the police. The explanation was sought after Khalistani elements were seen breaching the security of of the Indian diplomatic mission.

An Intelligence Bureau official tells OneIndia that with the Punjab police upping the ante with the help of the central agencies, these elements would look to further their activities abroad.

The movement has been gaining traction due to proscribed outfits such as the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). These outfits put out propaganda material online, which in turn leads to the radicalisation of Sikhs in India, the official explained. The issue may have not gained much traction in Punjab, but it continues to be a thorn where the International community is concerned.

Another official said that such incidents abroad is likely to increase in the days to come. The fact that the police have managed to keep Amritpal on the run is frustrating these elements.

The worry however is the lack of action by the international community. They have very often cited freedom of speech and let these elements flourish. However what they do not realise that these elements are extremely violent by nature and they can create a law and order problem in those countries. The vandalism in Australia, disruption in the Canada, UK and US are all examples of how dangerous these elements are.

While India will be able to control the problem in Punjab, it would have to continue speaking with the International community to keep such elements under check.