UK sanctions Sikh activist while FBI warns separatist of new threats

The UK government has utilized its Domestic Counter-Terrorism Regime to sanction Gurpreet Singh Rehal and the organization Babbar Akali Lehar (BAL). HM Treasury announced the move on December 4, 2025, citing reasonable grounds to suspect Rehal is involved in financing Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), a proscribed militant group. The sanctions include an immediate asset freeze and director disqualification, marking the first time this specific regime has been used to target funding for a pro-Khalistan militia.

Separately, Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, general counsel for Sikhs For Justice, reported receiving warnings from the FBI and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police regarding a new credible threat to his life. This warning follows a previous 2023 assassination plot involving Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national who pleaded guilty to federal conspiracy charges. The FBI had previously alleged that Gupta was directed by an Indian government employee to carry out the killing. Pannun, a dual U.S.-Canadian citizen, stated he remains undaunted by the threats.