Sikh security concerns rise amid UK activist threats from India

Published: 12 January 2026. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

A prominent Sikh activist in the UK has been advised to enhance his personal Sikh security after receiving credible threats from Hindu nationalist elements. Security officials recommended installing cameras and strengthening door locks following intelligence suggesting potential attacks. Paramjeet Singh Pamma, 52, stated the warnings came after police visits and verbal guidance to improve his home safety. He linked these threats to the Indian government, accusing UK ministers of underestimating transnational repression targeting Sikh activists abroad. Singh Pamma’s warnings highlight growing concerns over Sikh security for UK-based dissidents affected by foreign interference.

Singh Pamma, a vocal figure in the Khalistan movement seeking an independent Sikh state, said intelligence suggested persistent surveillance of his family. The Indian government labels Khalistani activities as terrorist, while Pamma maintains his activism is peaceful and political. According to MI5, investigations into state-led harassment of foreign dissidents in the UK rose by 48% since 2022. The joint committee on human rights identified India, alongside China and Russia, as a country involved in transnational repression during its 2024-25 report, underscoring the importance of Sikh security.

These threats follow international incidents targeting Sikh activists. Singh Pamma referred to the 2023 assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, which Prime Minister Justin Trudeau linked to Indian government agents. In the same year, US authorities accused an Indian operative of orchestrating an attempted attack on Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. These cases demonstrate the persistent risks to Sikh dissidents, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding Sikh security in countries providing political asylum.

In response, UK counter-terrorism units have increased their engagement with Singh Pamma. He reported frequent visits from local police and counter-terrorism officers, with one visit as recent as October 2025. “The repression we are facing has become relentless and crosses borders, threatening our families directly,” he said, adding that he lives separately from his family for safety. Singh Pamma emphasized his frustration with the UK government, citing delayed action despite repeated complaints prior to high-profile international incidents. Maintaining Sikh security remains a personal and community priority, he said.

Home Office representatives refrained from commenting on individual cases but affirmed their commitment to protecting all communities in the UK. They praised British Sikhs for their contributions, stressing safety as a top priority. Meanwhile, Singh Pamma recalled his turbulent past in India, including alleged police harassment and detention. He left India in 2000 after claiming repeated torture and was granted political asylum in the UK. Despite allegations linking him to extremist activities, Singh Pamma has consistently denied involvement in terrorism and welcomed investigations into any claims against him.

The activist described multiple security breaches in the UK, including threatening phone calls and in-person intimidations at his home. On one occasion, armed visitors confronted his neighbours in daylight, warning that he must cease activism or face death. In another incident, assailants vandalized his family property while his children witnessed the events. Police investigations reportedly lacked sufficient evidence to charge suspects, leaving Singh Pamma and his family in ongoing fear.

Other UK-based Sikh activists face similar risks. Avtar Singh Khanda, who raised complaints about harassment from Indian authorities, died suddenly in 2023, raising concerns among community members. Gurcharan Singh also reportedly received direct warnings from police about credible threats, leading him to rely on private security teams and regular police engagement. These cases have heightened anxieties within the UK Sikh community, highlighting vulnerabilities that persist despite government assurances.

Singh Pamma criticized what he perceives as diplomatic caution from UK authorities, suggesting political considerations may be prioritized over activist safety. He expressed concerns that such threats undermine the ability of Sikh activists to engage in public advocacy without fear. “If individuals are silenced to protect diplomatic interests, the fundamental right to security and freedom of expression is compromised,” he stated, reflecting broader tensions surrounding transnational repression.

The Indian High Commission in London declined to comment on Singh Pamma’s allegations. The situation exemplifies the complex intersection of diaspora activism, international relations, and domestic security, demonstrating the need for vigilance when foreign influence extends into UK communities. Singh Pamma’s case continues to underscore the challenges faced by Sikh activists navigating threats from external governments while seeking protection under British law.

The focus on safety measures, transnational threats, and government response emphasizes an ongoing debate about the UK’s ability to protect dissidents while managing diplomatic relations. With rising incidents reported across North America and Europe, experts suggest that monitoring and proactive engagement are crucial for safeguarding vulnerable activists. Singh Pamma’s story reflects not only personal risk but also broader implications for diaspora activism and international security policies.

While UK authorities continue to monitor threats, activists stress that timely action is essential to prevent escalation. Singh Pamma emphasized that his ongoing activism remains committed to peaceful political objectives, despite the risks. The UK government faces pressure to reconcile diplomatic relations with India while safeguarding residents who are vulnerable to transnational repression, illustrating the complexities of modern international security in a globalized era.

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