Are Khalistani Outfits Escalating Psychological Warfare from Punjab to Vancouver?

New Delhi, Sep 17 (NationPress) The recent threat issued by the banned militant group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) to target the Indian Consulate in Vancouver, Canada is yet another indication of the rising dangers posed by these Khalistani outfits.

This development serves as a forewarning, as intelligence officials suggest that the ISI has motivated these groups to escalate their activities in nations like Canada and the UK. They are engaging in psychological operations, a tactic that the ISI has employed since the humiliation faced by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.

Although the SFJ is notorious for making such threats as part of its psychological strategy, security agencies are taking these warnings seriously. There is palpable frustration among the Khalistani factions in Canada, as they struggle to realize their ambitions within India.

Indian security officials have consistently alerted their Canadian counterparts that failure to act against these terrorist elements could lead to significant risks on their soil. There have been instances where warnings were issued to Canadians to vacate the area. Some factions have even suggested establishing a Khalistan in Canada.

Since India retaliated against Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack, there has been increased communication between certain Pakistani accounts and members of the SFJ. Instructions have been given to the SFJ to intensify psychological operations against India. This includes threats to Indian diplomatic missions, a surge in anti-India rhetoric on social media, and calls for more referendums.

This reflects Pakistan's intent for the SFJ to engage in an intense narrative battle, similar to tactics employed post-Operation Sindoor. Pakistan seeks to portray itself as a close ally of the US while asserting its dominance in the region alongside China.

For the Khalistani movement, the genuine struggle has faltered due to vigilant Indian forces. There is insufficient support for the movement in Punjab, as the youth show little interest in this ideology. Consequently, the movement resorts to visual tactics to appeal to younger demographics. Without active participation from the youth, the Khalistan endeavor is nearing its end.

The ISI has urged the SFJ to engage the youth extensively, attempting to replicate strategies observed in Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bangladesh.

Indian authorities have raised a heightened alert, especially in Punjab, in light of these recent developments. The Punjab Police have remained vigilant, dismantling several networks and thwarting arms smuggling operations. Officials believe this uptick in activity signifies that the Khalistani factions are desperate and are being persistently pushed by the ISI to escalate their operations.

Initially, the ISI aimed to establish a militant force of Khalistani elements in Punjab. However, realizing the lack of traction, they opted for a strategic pivot. The ISI understands that if the movement fails to resonate with the people of Punjab, it is effectively doomed.

In this context, the SFJ, which boasts a robust online presence, emerges as a key player. They have attempted to provoke the youth on numerous occasions, but their efforts have not garnered much support.

The latest threat to the consulate in Vancouver follows the recent inauguration of a Khalistan Embassy in Canada. Canadian authorities have acknowledged the threat and published an assessment report addressing issues of terror financing and money laundering linked to these elements. Moving forward, Canada will need to collaborate closely with Indian agencies to devise effective solutions.