SEATTLE: Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on Sunday signalled the possibility of an armed struggle against India, as a Khalistan referendum held in Seattle drew more than 27,000 Sikh voters, organisers said, terming it a significant show of support for the separatist movement.
Organisers of the non-binding vote said tens of thousands of participants cast ballots in favour of an independent Khalistan — a proposed Sikh homeland in India’s Punjab region. The referendum, attended by members of the Sikh community from across the United States, was conducted in an organised manner.
In remarks delivered via video link after the conclusion of voting, Mr Pannun, a leader of Sikhs for Justice, raised the question of whether Sikhs should take up arms in response to what he described as Indian state repression. His comments marked a more confrontational turn in a campaign that has largely focused on advocacy and international outreach.
Participants at the event chanted slogans in support of Khalistan and criticised the Indian government, particularly targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi over alleged injustices against Sikhs. India has consistently rejected the Khalistan movement and termed such referendums illegitimate.
Mr Pannun said the movement would continue until its objectives were achieved, adding that the issue of a potential armed struggle could be raised at international forums, including the United Nations, to seek global opinion.
Independent observer Don Waters, who monitored the process, said the voting was conducted in line with international standards aimed at ensuring transparency and fairness. He described the referendum as an opportunity for members of the Sikh community to express their views on self-determination.
The Seattle vote is part of a series of overseas referendums organised by pro-Khalistan groups seeking to highlight their demands on the global stage.
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