The ministry of information and broadcasting on Tuesday announced it had ordered blocking of apps, website and social media accounts of Punjab Politics TV, an overseas-based media channel. Punjab Politics TV is alleged to have links with the banned outfit Sikhs for Justice.
The ministry referred to intelligence inputs that said the “channel was attempting to use online media to disturb public order during the ongoing State Assembly Elections”.
The ministry noted, “The contents of the blocked apps, website, and social media accounts had the potential to incite communal disharmony and separatism; and were found to be detrimental to the sovereignty and integrity of India, security of the State, and public order. It was also observed that the launch of new apps and social media accounts was timed to gain traction during the ongoing elections.”
also read
- India taking this seriously: US official over report on Pannun murder plot
- India summons Canada envoy after pro-Khalistan slogans raised at event attended by Trudeau
- Gurpatwant Pannun assassination plot: US media report reveals RAW official who ‘hired hit team’
- Kejriwal not given amenities provided even to hardcore criminals: Punjab CM Mann
In July 2019, the Centre banned Sikhs for Justice under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act,1967, given its support for Khalistan.
Since then, the government has cracked down on digital handles linked to SFJ. In July 2020, the government banned 40 websites linked to SFJ. One of the websites was associated with 'Referendum 2020', an initiative to gain support for establishing Khalistan.
