Centre blocks apps, website of channel linked to banned 'Sikhs For Justice'

The ministry of information and broadcasting said in a statement that the channel was “attempting to use online media to disturb public order” during the Punjab assembly elections.

The central government has ordered blocking on apps, website, and social media accounts of foreign-based ‘Punjab Politics TV’ for having close links with the banned pro-Khalistan outfit ‘Sikhs For Justice’. The ministry of information and broadcasting said in a statement that the channel was “attempting to use online media to disturb public order” during the Punjab assembly elections.

A man hangs on to pole holding a Sikh religious flag along with a farm union flag at the historic Red Fort monument during farmers protest in New Delhi, India. (AP)

The ministry stated that the content pushed on digital platforms by the foreign-based channel had the “potential to incite communal disharmony and separatism”. It added that the content was “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," the ministry said.

The Sikhs For Justice organisation has been declared unlawful under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. SFJ founder-leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has been declared as an “individual terrorist” under UAPA for promoting secessionism.

“The Government of India remains vigilant and committed to secure the overall information environment in India and thwart any actions having the potential to undermine India’s sovereignty and integrity,” the information ministry said in the release.