Islamabad, 16 September, 2023 (GNP): Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, General Counsel for Sikh for Justice (SFJ), has asserted that the deaths of Indian soldiers in occupied Kashmir should not be classified as acts of terrorism but rather as casualties arising from the ongoing conflict with indigenous Kashmiri freedom fighters.
In a video statement, Pannun argued that these freedom fighters, who are native to Kashmir, are exercising their right to seek self-determination, similar to the aspirations of people in Punjab, including Sikhs who desire the liberation of their homeland from what they perceive as unjust Indian control.
Pannun issued a stern warning to India, underscoring the importance of pursuing a peaceful resolution in Punjab to prevent the potential escalation of armed conflict. He emphasized that India would bear the responsibility for any consequences resulting from a failure to address the legitimate concerns of the people in Punjab.
Read more: Rangers caught six Indian smugglers in Pakistani territory
Furthermore, Pannun highlighted the fragile situation in Kashmir, where the Indian army has faced accusations of instilling fear among innocent Kashmiris and targeting freedom fighters.
While Pannun acknowledged that the current conflict is primarily confined to Kashmir, he expressed concerns that it could eventually spread to Punjab as part of a broader effort to secure Punjab’s independence from Indian rule. This statement reflects ongoing tensions and aspirations for self-determination in the region.
