Ashish Ranjan
Saturday, Punjab police led a dramatic pursuit of Khalistani sympathiser Amritpal Singh and arrested ten of his closest associates. After police launched the crackdown against the Sikh preacher, who has been at the centre of protests against the detention of his key associate Lovepreet Singh alias Toofan, Internet services were also suspended across the state.
- Amritpal Singh, dubbed “Bhindranwale 2.0,” adheres to the teachings and attire of Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, who advocated for Khalistan and was slain in 1984 during Operation Bluestar.
- Amritpal worked for his family’s transport company in Dubai before returning to India in 2022. He became the leader of ‘Waris Punjab De,’ a radical organisation founded by the late actor Deep Sidhu ‘to safeguard the rights of Punjab and to raise awareness of social issues’
- Amritpal recently wed Kirandeep Kaur, an Indian non-resident of the United Kingdom, at a gurdwara in Nakodar.
- Supporters equipped with swords and arms are always seen escorting the separatist leader, who mimics Bhindranwale’s style by donning a turban, traditional robes, and other Sikh articles.
- 5. Amritpal, who is from the village of Jallu-Pur Khaira in the district of Amritsar, stated last month that Home Minister Amit Shah would suffer the same fate as former prime minister Indira Gandhi if atrocities against Sikhs are not stopped.
Also Read | Amritpal Singh Arrested After Dramatic Chase
- His speeches are dominated by an anti-immigrant stance and the message that “Punjab is for Punjabis.” Additionally, the radical pastor attempts to connect with the youth by discussing the state’s drug problem and other social ills.
