Punjab AAP MLA Alleges Death Threat from Gurpatwant Singh Pannun; Police Probe Suspicious Activity Outside Residence

A fresh security scare has gripped punjab’s political circles after Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLA Kulwant Sidhu alleged that he received death threats from Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the leader of the banned Khalistani outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). The claim comes amid reports of suspicious activity outside his Ludhiana residence late Saturday night.

Punjab Police have launched an investigation, while security arrangements for multiple AAP legislators in the region have been significantly tightened.

Suspicious Car Spotted Outside Residence

According to Kulwant Sidhu, who represents the Atam Nagar constituency in Ludhiana, a black-tinted Hyundai i20 was seen parked outside his residence around 9 pm on Saturday while he was attending a meeting inside.

CCTV footage reportedly captured unusual movement near the property. The vehicle remained stationed for nearly two minutes, leading to suspicion that the occupants may have been conducting reconnaissance (recce).

“A meeting was underway at my residence when the car stopped outside, seemingly identifying the house,” Sidhu said. By the time his security personnel attempted to intercept the vehicle, the suspects had fled the scene.

Residents and family members stepped outside after noticing the suspicious activity on CCTV cameras, prompting the occupants of the vehicle to drive away.

Police sources indicated that investigators are now examining surveillance footage from nearby areas to trace the vehicle’s registration number and identify those involved.

Alleged Threats from Gurpatwant Singh Pannun

Sidhu has claimed that the threats originated from Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who heads Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) — an organization declared unlawful under India’s anti-terror laws.

Pannun has previously issued provocative statements and threats targeting Indian political leaders and institutions. While authorities have not yet officially confirmed the source of the latest threats, Sidhu maintains that the calls are linked to SFJ operatives.

The MLA’s family has reported that over the past week, his phone has received multiple suspicious international calls. As a precaution, the government has advised him not to respond to unknown overseas numbers.

Security Boosted for AAP Leaders

The alleged threat has prompted heightened security measures not only for Kulwant Sidhu but also for fellow AAP MLA Ashok Parashar Pappi, who represents Ludhiana Central.

Following separate threat inputs, Parashar’s security cover was strengthened and he has been provided with a bulletproof vehicle. Punjab Police officials confirmed that a comprehensive security review is underway.

Despite the enhanced vigilance, the individuals spotted in the suspicious vehicle managed to escape before being detained.

“I Am Not Afraid”: Sidhu Responds

Reacting firmly to the alleged threats, Kulwant Sidhu asserted that he would continue his public service without fear.

“With the blessings of Baba Deep Singh Ji, I will continue to serve the public without fear,” he said, emphasizing his resolve despite the security scare.

His statement reflects the growing tension in Punjab, where sporadic pro-Khalistan rhetoric and overseas-linked separatist messaging have resurfaced in recent years.

Police Investigation Underway

Punjab Police are currently analyzing CCTV footage from multiple cameras installed across Sidhu’s neighborhood. Investigators aim to identify the registration details of the black-tinted i20 and determine whether the activity was indeed a reconnaissance attempt or a coincidental presence.

Authorities have not yet disclosed whether any formal case has been registered under anti-terror or criminal intimidation provisions, but senior officers confirmed that all threat perceptions are being treated with seriousness.

Broader Security Concerns

Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has been outlawed in India for its alleged involvement in separatist activities and extremist propaganda advocating for Khalistan. Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, believed to be operating from overseas, has previously issued controversial video messages targeting Indian leaders.

The latest incident once again raises concerns about cross-border extremist networks and their attempts to destabilize local political leadership in Punjab.

As investigations continue, the episode underscores the persistent security challenges faced by elected representatives in politically sensitive regions.

For now, heightened vigilance and intelligence coordination remain the priority as authorities work to establish the full scope and credibility of the alleged threat.