Jailed Khalistani Separatist, And Now MP: Amritpal's Poll Win Brings Fresh Challenges for India on Global Forums

Facing stringent National Security Act (NSA) charges while sitting in Assam’s Dibrugarh jail, pro-Khalistani radical preacher Amritpal Singh seems all set to enter the Lok Sabha. His supporters rejoiced on Tuesday as he won the Khadoor Sahib parliamentary seat, defeating Congress’s Kulbir Singh Zira by a margin of 1,97,120 votes. However, central agencies are concerned about his victory.

According to government sources, a central intelligence agency previously warned about Amritpal’s Lok Sabha candidacy, citing potential support from anti-national groups. A senior government official, who has represented India on various global platforms, told News18 that the coming days would be challenging for the country following Amritpal’s victory.

“India firmly believes that Khalistani sentiments are fueled from abroad, with minimal support within. However, Amritpal Singh’s victory may impact this belief and make it difficult to convince other nations that Khalistan sentiment is not prevalent in India,” the official stated.

Also, he said, Amritpal may try to meet or show his support to those countries and leaders with not-so-good relations with India.

There are leaders in the United Kingdom who openly support the idea of Khalistan and may try to contact Amritpal Singh.

Another official noted that the victory could boost the Khalistani referendum, which pro-Khalistani entities are organising. Amritpal Singh is likely to support the referendum, which goes against India.

“Khalistani entities, especially Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, have been advocating for the Khalistani referendum, which may gain momentum after Amritpal Singh’s victory. Now that he will be a Member of Parliament, his endorsement of the referendum could challenge India’s stance. There are other forthcoming challenges as well,” a senior intelligence official told News18.

In April 2023, a massive manhunt was launched for Amritpal Singh, resulting in the arrest of 300 youngsters, many of whom had interacted with him but had committed no crimes.

Amritpal Singh gained attention for his anti-drug campaign and demand for a separate state. He draws inspiration from extremist Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who was killed in Operation Bluestar in 1984. Supporters of the jailed leader argue that the wounds of 1984 are yet to be healed.