In a significant development, the Punjab government has extended the detention of Amritpal Singh, independent MP from Khadoor Sahib and a known Khalistani sympathiser, by one more year under the National Security Act (NSA). Singh has been incarcerated in Assam’s Dibrugarh Jail for the past two years, and his detention was originally set to expire on April 23.

Sources said preparations were underway by the Punjab Police to bring Singh back to the state. However, a last-minute review and consultation between central and state security agencies led to a change in plans, and his detention under the NSA was extended instead.

The District Magistrate of Amritsar had recommended the extension, which was subsequently approved by the Punjab State Home Department.

Singh, who rose to prominence with pro-Khalistan rhetoric and mass mobilisation in Punjab, was arrested amid a major state-wide crackdown in 2023. Apart from the NSA, he also faces serious charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), which deals with terrorism-related offences and activities that pose a threat to national sovereignty.

The decision to extend his detention reflects the state’s continued concerns over law and order and national security. Authorities fear that his release could revive unrest or provoke sentiments aligned with separatist ideologies in sensitive areas of Punjab.

Singh, who contested as an independent and won from Khadoor Sahib, has remained a controversial figure, particularly due to his alignment with Khalistani sympathies and anti-establishment posturing.