Polling Begins for Khalistan Referendum in Indiana, Thousands of Sikhs Participate
Indianapolis: Voting for the Khalistan referendum on the proposed establishment of an independent Sikh state has officially begun in Indianapolis, the capital of the U.S. state of Indiana. The polling, organized by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), is witnessing significant participation from members of the Sikh community. Voting began at 9:00 a.m. local time and is scheduled to continue throughout the day.
Sikhs for Justice Global Campaign and Polling Arrangements
Global Campaign: The polling is part of the worldwide campaign organized by Sikhs for Justice, led by General Counsel Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Public Participation: Khalistan flags and banners have been displayed around downtown Indianapolis and near the polling centers.
Facilities for Voters: Local Sikh organizations and community volunteers have arranged transportation, guidance and other facilities for voters traveling from distant areas.
Referendum Campaign in U.S. Cities and Around the World
This is reportedly the second major Khalistan referendum held in the United States this year, following polling in Seattle that also attracted thousands of participants. Internationally, similar polling has previously been held in London, Toronto, Vancouver, Rome and Geneva.
Indian Response and Diplomatic Tensions
The Indian government has consistently rejected these unofficial referendums, describing them as a challenge to India's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Allegations of Targeting: Gurpatwant Singh Pannun has alleged that New Delhi is pursuing a policy of targeting Sikh activists abroad.
Diplomatic Tensions: Relations between India and several Western governments have remained strained following the killing of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada and alleged assassination plots in the United States.