Web Desk: Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has called on Pakistan’s military leadership to open a special enlistment for Sikh volunteers from Indian Punjab, saying they wish to join the Pakistan Army for the defense of Sindh. The appeal came after what the group described as an “open threat” by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to seize the province, a claim India has not commented on publicly.
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, SFJ’s general counsel, said in a statement that Pakistan should “immediately open a special enlistment channel for Sikhs willing to join the Pakistan Army for the defence of Sindh.” Moreover, Pannun added that the group has issued a formal request to Pakistan’s “Field Marshal,” a rank that does not exist in Pakistan’s current military structure, further urging authorization for Sikh volunteers to cross the border and enlist.
Group Seeks Dedicated Sikh Military Unit
SFJ outlined several steps it wants Pakistan’s military command to take. These include approving special enlistment for Sikh volunteers, forming what it called a “Sikh Defence Unit” under Pakistan Army command, and deploying such a unit specifically for the protection of Sindh.
According to SFJ, thousands of Sikh volunteers across the world will join as soon as Pakistan announces an official recruitment protocol. The group did not provide evidence or independent verification of this claim.
International Law Cited as Basis for Appeal
In its statement, SFJ said its stance is rooted in international law, citing United Nations provisions related to conscientious objection. The group referenced Article 18 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience and religion.
SFJ said the UN Human Rights Committee has affirmed that the right to conscientious objection can extend to individuals who refuse participation in military operations they consider unjust or politically coercive. Consequently, the group used this interpretation to argue that Sikh soldiers in India could legally refuse participation in any future conflict involving Pakistan.
Context and Reactions
The call comes amid heightened rhetoric between India and Pakistan, although there has been no formal military escalation over Sindh. Indian authorities have repeatedly labeled SFJ a separatist organization seeking to destabilize Punjab and have banned its activities. Meanwhile, Pakistan has not publicly responded to SFJ’s latest request.
Overall, the situation remains fluid, and neither government has issued statements on the enlistment proposal or the claims surrounding troop movements or threats involving Sindh.
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