Visitors restricted from Delhi, Punjab airports amidst Air India threat

India's aviation authorities have taken strict security measures in response to a threat made by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the founder of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Pannun released a video warning that an Air India flight could be targeted on November 19. In the video, he urged Sikhs to avoid traveling on Air India flights on that day due to a "global blockade."

As a result of this threat, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has ordered airport operators in Delhi and Punjab to stop issuing temporary airport entry passes to visitors. Additionally, the sale of visitors' entry tickets has been banned at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi.

Delhi's choking air quality is health 'murder': Supreme Court's stern warning

The BCAS cited ongoing threat messages from central agencies regarding the safety of civil aviation installations across India, including airports, airstrips, airfields, air force stations, helipads, flying schools, and aviation training schools. To enhance security measures, a 100% secondary ladder point check (SLPC) requirement has been imposed on all Air India flights at 161 airports, including those in Punjab.

These measures are being taken as a precautionary response to the threat, and they aim to ensure the safety and security of aviation facilities amid heightened concerns. The threat comes just days before the ICC World Cup final scheduled for November 19, adding an extra layer of urgency to these security measures.