Has the ISI-Backed Khalistan Network Expanded to Milan and Injected Bangladesh into Its Propaganda?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Khalistan movement is expanding into new regions, including Milan.
- Pro-Khalistani groups are intertwining their narratives with issues in Bangladesh.
- Intelligence reports indicate ISI involvement in promoting anti-India sentiments.
- Increased scrutiny on Khalistani activities is noted in various countries.
- India must adopt strategic measures to counter these developments.
New Delhi, Jan 2 (NationPress) A poster is circulating in Milan, Italy, urging a lockdown by pro-Khalistan factions. Previously, awareness existed about Khalistani presence in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Australia, but this poster, highlighting protests in Italy, marks a significant shift.
Officials from the Intelligence Bureau have indicated that communications intercepted suggest Khalistani groups are intent on expanding their influence globally, aiming to amplify their messaging. This represents a concerted effort to project a transnational narrative about the Khalistan movement.
While the overarching message continues to advocate for the establishment of a distinct Khalistan nation derived from Punjab, the new poster also addresses the current scenario in Bangladesh. The protest, or lockdown, in Milan is being spearheaded by Jagroop Singh and Gurpal Singh, affiliates of the banned organization, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). This group is at the forefront of the Khalistan movement's propaganda efforts, having orchestrated various referendums in Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Led by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the SFJ has previously issued calls for the assassination of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and circulated videos depicting the desecration of the Indian flag. The protest's organizers have drawn parallels between the killing of terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and the assassination of anti-India student leader Osman Hadi. Khalistani elements have accused Indian agencies of being responsible for Nijjar's murder in Canada.
Following Hadi's death, a narrative emerged blaming India for the incident. The connection made between these two cases by Khalistani groups indicates that they are following a script orchestrated by the ISI. These groups seek to capture international attention, alleging Indian interference in foreign affairs and extrajudicial killings.
An official from the Intelligence Bureau stated that these actions are evidently orchestrated by the ISI, asserting that both Nijjar and Hadi's murders were planned by the agency. Acknowledging that both individuals were anti-India, the ISI is now attempting to propagate the notion that India was behind both murders.
The upcoming event in Milan is yet to occur, but agencies are on high alert to thwart it. Indian officials note that this expansion into Milan underscores the Khalistan movement's ambitions for broader reach, indicating an evolving strategy.
The ISI-backed Khalistani factions recognize increasing scrutiny, especially in Canada and the UK, and are making strides into Australia while targeting Italy as well. Officials believe these elements will attempt to penetrate additional nations, engaging in a narrative war against India and seeking support from multiple countries.
Indian Intelligence agencies have reported a rise in propaganda materials circulating on social media. This marks the first instance of Khalistani factions highlighting the Bangladesh issue, driven by the ISI's agenda to tarnish India's image globally.
As elections approach in Bangladesh, further attempts are anticipated, with the ISI likely to utilize Khalistani elements more aggressively. The aim is to instill the perception among Bangladeshis that their challenges stem from India.