NEW DELHI, FEB 22
The Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, on Tuesday, has ordered blocking of apps, website, and social media accounts of foreign-based “Punjab Politics TV” having close links with Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), an organization that has been declared unlawful under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
.@MIB_India orders blocking of Apps, website, and social media accounts linked to banned organization Sikhs For Justice
Ministry used emergency powers under IT Rules on 18th February to block the digital media resources of “Punjab Politics TV”
Details: https://t.co/YGSwx3Ixxe pic.twitter.com/HvJh8LBVib
— PIB India (@PIB_India) February 22, 2022
Relying on intelligence inputs that the channel was attempting to use online media to disturb public order during the ongoing State Assembly Elections, the Ministry used emergency powers under the IT Rules on 18th February to block the digital media resources of “Punjab Politics TV”, the statement added.
The statement further said 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.
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.
In January 2019, the Centre banned the pro-Khalistani SFJ under the UAPA. The ban was challenged in court, but a UAPA tribunal subsequently upheld it the next year.
Former AAP leader Kumar Vishwas had alleged last week that Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had links to Khalistani separatists. This led to allegations by the Congress and the BJP that Kejriwal and his party were being supported by SFJ.
