WASHINGTON: The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) reportedly issued a “Duty to Warn” security alert on October 15 over an imminent threat to the life of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a prominent leader of the Khalistan movement and general counsel of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ).

According to reports, the warning specifically concerns Pannun’s planned travel from the United States to Edmonton, Canada, where a Khalistan referendum is scheduled to take place on October 18.

Pannun had previously been warned by Canadian police about threats to his life. Reports also indicate that he was alerted to potential threats against his residence in Ontario. He holds dual US and Canadian citizenship.

Pannun Questions Canada’s Expanding Ties With India

The security warning comes as Pannun questions Canada’s efforts to expand trade and security cooperation with India.

He has pointed to what he describes as a contradiction between Canadian police warnings to Khalistan referendum organizers about threats to their lives and homes and the Canadian government’s efforts to strengthen relations with New Delhi.

Pannun has called on the Canadian government to clarify whether alleged assassination operations in Canada have ceased or whether Ottawa has changed its approach to addressing the threats.

‘Freedom for Punjab or Death — Nothing in Between’

Reacting to the security warning, Pannun reiterated his commitment to the Khalistan movement, saying, “Freedom for Punjab or death — nothing in between.”

He said the Indian government might succeed in killing him before he could witness the establishment of Khalistan. However, he maintained that he remained determined to see future generations of Sikhs live in an independent Punjab.

Pannun said the October 18 referendum in Edmonton would mark another chapter in what he describes as the peaceful struggle for Punjab’s independence.

Khalistan Referendum Scheduled for October 18

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has announced that the Khalistan referendum in Edmonton will proceed as scheduled on October 18 despite what the organization describes as continued threats against its organizers.

The referendum is a non-binding public vote in which participating Sikh voters can express support for or opposition to Punjab’s independence from India and the establishment of Khalistan.

According to SFJ, the initiative aims to provide Sikhs with an opportunity to express their views on their political future and the right to self-determination.

The vote is non-binding, and its results will not legally determine Punjab’s separation from India.