Who is British Sikh businessman Gurpreet Singh Rehal, who was banned by Britain? What are the allegations?

In a shocking step, the British government has imposed strict ban on British-Sikh businessman Gurpreet Singh Rehal. This action by HM Treasury includes freezing Rehal’s assets, banning business activities and investigating groups associated with him. It is alleged that Rehal was allegedly associated with a network which is suspected of funding radicalism. This action against Rehal, who came into the limelight during the takeover of Morecambe FC, has caused a stir throughout the community.

Who is Gurpreet Singh Rahal?

Gurpreet Singh Rehal is a British-Sikh businessman. This person’s name has appeared for the first time in the sanctions list announced by the British government. He was associated with British sports investment firm Panjab Warriors. This firm had recently acquired the British football club Morecambe FC. Rehal was described as having a consultancy role during this acquisition.

Why did Britain ban it?

The British Government (HM Treasury) has imposed an asset freeze on Rehal. This means that all their properties and economic resources in Britain have been seized. Apart from this, he has also been banned from becoming a director of any company or being involved in the management/running of any company. The group Babbar Akali Lehar, which is allegedly linked to Babbar Khalsa, has also been banned.

What is the allegation?

The British government has said that Rehal has been found to be associated with those organizations (Babbar Khalsa and Babbar Akali Lehar), which are considered fundamentalist and terrorist groups operating in India. It is alleged that he has provided financial assistance, funding or other resources to these groups or the networks associated with them. The British police are also suspected of helping in the purchase of weapons or other military material.

The British government says that this action is the first time that it has taken the step of stopping funding to any person or group under its Domestic Counter-Terrorism Regime.

impact of decision

Morecambe FC and Panjab Warriors immediately said that Rehal is now completely separated from their firm or club. His consultancy role has also been cancelled. This action shows that the British Government has now become very strict in stopping the funding of terrorism or extremism through financial and investment networks.

Britain has taken a big step at the end of 2025. For the first time, using its domestic counter-terrorism regime, it has imposed strict sanctions on British-Sikh businessman Gurpreet Singh Rehal and his associated group Babbar Akali Lehar. He is accused of helping in the funding, recruitment and supply of weapons to the terrorist group Babbar Khalsa banned in India. Additionally, he has also been prevented from becoming a part of or managing any British company. Following this decision, their business stake including Morecambe FC has been immediately terminated. This initiative shows that the British government is also keeping an eye on investment, banking and trade networks to prevent the financial sources of terrorism.