Indian Government Extends Ban on Sikhs For Justice for Another 5 Years

The Indian government has extended the ban on Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) for another five years. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced the extension on Tuesday, declaring SFJ an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

The ban, effective from July 10, 2024, cites SFJ’s involvement in “anti-India and subversive activities aimed at disrupting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India.” This extension follows a similar ban issued by the MHA in 2019.

The Ministry’s notification reads: “In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-sections (1) and (3) of section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), the Government hereby extends the declaration of the Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) as an unlawful association and directs that this notification shall, subject to any order that may be made under section 4 of the said Act, have effect for a further period of five years from 10th day of July, 2024.”

The ban on SFJ, which takes effect immediately, will remain in force for five years unless revoked or modified by the government. The decision underscores the government’s stance on maintaining national security and territorial integrity against perceived threats.

The extension of the ban reflects ongoing concerns about SFJ’s activities and their potential impact on India’s sovereignty.

The government’s decision has drawn reactions from various quarters, with some supporting the move as necessary for national security, while others criticize it as suppressing dissent. The ban highlights the delicate balance between maintaining security and addressing the rights and aspirations of different groups within the country.

As the ban continues, the situation will be closely watched by national and international observers, with implications for India and its approach to handling separatist movements.