New Zealand Sikh Leader Backs Khalistani Referendum: 'Self-determination a Basic Right'

Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, a prominent Sikh leader in New Zealand, has expressed his support for the Khalistan referendum, saying that Sikhs have the fundamental right to determine their own future.

The Khalistan referendum is a non-binding referendum organized by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a US-based Sikh separatist group, to gauge the level of support for the creation of an independent Sikh homeland called Khalistan in the Indian state of Punjab.

Bakshi, who is the president of the Sikh Society of Auckland, said he believes that the referendum is a legitimate attempt by Sikhs to exercise their right to self-determination.

“The Sikh people have suffered centuries of discrimination and oppression in India, and they have the right to explore all options for self-governance,” Bakshi said.

The Khalistan movement has been active for decades, and it has gained significant support among some Sikhs, particularly in the diaspora.

The Indian government has consistently opposed the movement, calling it a "threat to national unity".

The Khalistan referendum is scheduled to be held in October 2023, and it is expected to draw significant participation from Sikhs around the world.

The outcome of the referendum will be non-binding, but it could have a significant impact on the future of the Khalistan movement.

If the referendum shows a strong level of support for Khalistan, it could put pressure on the Indian government to reconsider its position on the issue.

However, it is also possible that the referendum could lead to further tensions between Sikhs and the Indian government.