08-Jan-2025

Bhagat Singh Memorial Foundation Pakistan Chairman Imtiaz Rasheed Qureshi sent a legal notice on January 8 to Tariq Majeed, Chief Public Relations Officer of the Metropolitan Corporation Lahore and a retired Pakistan armed forces veteran, demanding INR 50 crore in damages and an unconditional apology. The notice accuses Majeed of defaming Qureshi by alleging he received foreign funding and labeling freedom fighter Bhagat Singh as a "criminal." Qureshi, described in the notice as a patriot working to improve India-Pakistan relations, denied taking foreign funds and referenced Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's praise for Bhagat Singh to refute Majeed's remarks.

07-Jan-2025

Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, chief of the banned outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), on January 7 congratulated Pakistan on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) in a letter addressed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Pannun urged Pakistan to support the Sikh community's demand for Khalistan, drawing parallels to Pakistan’s advocacy for Kashmir’s self-determination. He claimed that Pakistan's UNSC position could amplify global dialogue on self-determination and commended its stance on Kashmir as a precedent.

31-Dec-2024

A report by The Washington Post on December 31 alleged that India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) has carried out a covert assassination program targeting six individuals in Pakistan since 2021. The operations reportedly relied on local intermediaries and informal financial networks to maintain deniability. While the missions in Pakistan were deemed successful, similar attempts in Western nations, including on Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, were reportedly thwarted by advanced counterintelligence measures. The report drew comparisons between RAW's tactics and those of Israel's Mossad, amid public accusations from Pakistan and consistent denials by India.

24-Dec-2024

The Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), a pro-Khalistan militant organization led by Ranjeet Singh alias Neeta, operates in coordination with Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) to pursue its goal of establishing a sovereign Khalistan state. Banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and in the European Union, KZF has been involved in attacks on public transport, police facilities, and religious leaders in India and abroad. Neeta, declared a terrorist in 2020, is linked to cross-border arms smuggling and faces an Interpol Red Corner Notice.

06-Dec-2024

Pakistan's Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on December 6 registered a First Information Report (FIR) against Sikh journalist Harmeet Singh, accusing him of spreading misleading propaganda against state institutions. The FIR alleges that his posts covering the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protests incited violence and terrorism. Harmeet has denied the accusations, citing a lack of evidence and claiming he is being targeted as a minority journalist.

14-Nov-2024

Pakistan Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) Secretary Fareed Iqbal, Additional Secretary Shrines Saifullah Khokhar, and Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Prabandhak Committee (PSGPC) president Ramesh Singh Arora on November 14 welcomed over 2,550 Sikh pilgrims from India at the Wagah Border. The pilgrims arrived in Pakistan to participate in the festivities celebrating the 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, with the main event scheduled at Gurdwara Janamasthan in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan.

10-Nov-2024

According to intelligence sources, the financially struggling Pakistan government has directed the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC) to centralise all religious donations ahead of the 555th Parkash Purb of Guru Nanak Dev. As part of this move, the PSGPC has reportedly removed donation boxes and billboards from other Sikh organizations, including karsewa groups, at prominent gurdwaras like Gurdwara Nankana Sahib and Gurdwara Punjab Sahib, ensuring that all donations are now routed through PSGPC-designated boxes.

30-Oct-2024

Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, on October 30 in Lahore, announced a waiver on visa fees for Sikh pilgrims from the United States (US), Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK).

23-Oct-2024

A spokesperson for the Punjab government in Pakistan announced on October 23 that Chief Minister (CM) Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved a distribution of PKR 10,000 to 2,200 Sikh and Hindu families in the province as part of a 'festival card' initiative ahead of Guru Nanak's birth anniversary and Diwali. This financial aid aims to support the celebration of these religious festivals, with special arrangements being made for foreign pilgrims visiting for Guru Nanak Dev's 555th birth anniversary. The government has outlined plans for transport, accommodation, and food services to ensure a smooth experience for the pilgrims.

22-Oct-2024

India and Pakistan on October 22 extended the validity of their agreement on the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor for another five years, ensuring uninterrupted access for Indian pilgrims to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur, Pakistan. India also urged Pakistan to waive the USD 20 service charge imposed on each pilgrim. Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar confirmed the renewal and reaffirmed the government's commitment to facilitating Sikh pilgrims' access to their holy sites.

07-Oct-2024

Ramesh Singh Arora, the first Sikh provincial minister of Pakistan’s Punjab, announced on October 7 that a significant number of Sikh diaspora members are expected to visit Pakistan for Guru Nanak Dev's 555th birth anniversary celebrations. He attributed this to friendly policies, streamlined visa facilitation, and development projects at gurdwaras. Arora, who also heads the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), noted that over 15,000 Sikh pilgrims are anticipated, with overall attendance expected to exceed 60,000.

30-Sep-2024

The government of Pakistan’s Punjab province, along with Punjab's first Sikh minister, Ramesh Singh Arora, on September 30 in Lahore, advised Indian Sikhs visiting the country to carry US dollars instead of Indian currency due to complaints of unfair exchange rates. The advisory was issued following multiple reports of exploitation. Arora also urged Indian Sikhs not to pay extra fees to group leaders during their visits for religious festivities, including the upcoming 555th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev on November 14.

22-Sep-2024

The two-day commemoration of the 485th Joti Jot anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji concluded at Gurdwara Sri Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur in Pakistan on September 22. The event featured a Nagar Kirtan procession to the India-Pakistan border, the unveiling of a statue of Bhai Mardana, and the sowing of seeds under the "Kheti Sahib" initiative.

01-Sep-2024

Ramesh Singh Arora, Punjab’s Sikh Minority Affairs Minister in Pakistan, on September 1 launched a PKR 88-crore project aimed at enhancing religious tourism by upgrading facilities at gurdwaras in Punjab Province. The initiative includes constructing 100 rooms at Gurdwara Janamasthan in Nankana Sahib and renovating other key gurdwaras to attract global Sikh pilgrims. Arora emphasized the project's completion by November 2025 to coincide with Guru Nanak Dev’s birth anniversary celebrations. The government is also setting up botanical gardens and initiating karsewas to further enhance the appeal of these sacred sites.

10-Aug-2024

On August 11, Pakistan’s Sikhs and Hindus decided to observe 'National Minority Day' to highlight issues such as untouchability, attacks, and discrimination against them in Pakistan. The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) pledged its support to raise these concerns. Pakistani rights activist Imran Chatha called for accountability for those harming minority communities, while Jaskaran Singh Sidhu of Gurdwara Babe Di Ber announced meetings with Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Punjab Province Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to seek enhanced safety and security.

03-Aug-2024

According to sources, Sikhs and Hindus in Pakistan have launched a campaign to amend the Succession Act of 1925, arguing that it unfairly limits inheritance rights for their communities, particularly for women. Prof. Kalyan Singh Kalyan emphasized that the Act, originally designed for Christians, fails to ensure equal inheritance rights for Sikhs and Hindus. Pushpa Kumari from the Human Rights Commission (HRC) noted that the current law often results in property being transferred to male relatives rather than daughters, underscoring the need for legal reform to address these inequalities.

27-Jul-2024

The Punjab provincial government in Pakistan recently approved the Punjab Sikh Anand Karaj Marriage Registrar Rules 2024, marking a historic first in the implementation of such legislation. Engaged Sikh couples are eagerly seeking to be the first to register their marriages under the newly enacted Sikh Marriage Act of 2024. This new Act allows for the official registration of Sikh marriages, a significant change from the previous practice of only recording marriages in gurdwaras.

24-Jul-2024

The Cabinet of the Pakistan government introduced visa-on-arrival privileges on July 24 for Sikhs holding passports from countries other than India and waived visa fees for travelers from 126 nations. This initiative aims to boost tourism and generate revenue, specifically targeting Sikh pilgrims visiting historic gurdwaras in Pakistan.

19-Jul-2024

According to the 2023 Population and Housing Census by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics, the Hindu population in Pakistan increased from 3.5 million in 2017 to 3.8 million in 2023, although their share of the total population decreased from 1.73% to 1.61%. The Christian population grew from 2.6 million to 3.3 million, while the Sikh and Parsi populations were 15,998 and 2,348, respectively. Pakistan's total population rose from 207.68 million in 2017 to 240.46 million in 2023.

15-Jul-2024

According to sources, only two of the five Sikh hardliners from India's list of 20 most-wanted men, who were released after the 2001 Parliament House attack, remain alive and are believed to be hiding in Pakistan under government patronage. Wadhawan Singh Babbar, over 70 years old, leads the Khalistani terror outfit Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and is involved in the Punjab insurgency, wanted for numerous serious crimes. Ranjit Singh Neeta, leader of another terror outfit, Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF), faces charges including murder and arms smuggling. Recent intelligence suggests Pakistan may be reviving its "bleed India" strategy, marked by military ambushes in Jammu and sightings of suspicious individuals near border districts.

14-Jul-2024

Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs and President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, highlighted efforts to reclaim lands belonging to minority worship places in Punjab province, Pakistan, following the vision of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. He praised recent actions reclaiming the pond at Gurdwara Babe Di Beri in Sialkot from illegal occupants, which had been under land mafia control for 77 years.

10-Jul-2024

According to sources, there is an alleged plot within the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) to replace Ramesh Singh Arora, Punjab's first Sikh minister and current president of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (PSGPC), with a Christian minister in Pakistan's Minority Affairs Office, a position historically held by a Christian. Critics, including a faction within PML-N, accuse Arora of misconduct and have called for his dismissal to restore the position to a Christian.

09-Jul-2024

Kartarpur Management Unit Deputy Secretary Saifullah Khokhar stated on July 9 that Pakistan has completed the 420-meter-long bridge at the Kartarpur Corridor zero line, overcoming a two-and-a-half-year delay. The completion prepares the bridge for use pending the finalization of a 10-feet section on the Indian side. Initiated to provide a flood-resistant route to Gurdwara Darbar Sahib for Sikh pilgrims, the project, costing PKR 4.53 million, was funded by Pakistan's Public Development Fund with construction by the Frontier Works Organisation and National Engineering Services Pakistan.

09-Jul-2024

Pakistani cricketer Kamran Akmal apologised for his controversial remarks about Arshdeep Singh’s Sikh religion on live TV, acknowledging his mistake in an interview.

03-Jul-2024

Khalistani terrorist Gajinder Singh, who led the group that hijacked an Indian Airlines aircraft to Lahore in 1981 and was one of the most-wanted persons in the records of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (UMHA), passed away at the age of 73 after a brief illness in Lahore, Pakistan, on July 3. He was the founder of the separatist organization Dal Khalsa and had spent 14 years in a Pakistani prison for the hijacking. Since his release in 1995, Gajinder had been living in exile. After the terror attack on the Indian Parliament in 2001, the UMHA released a list of 20 people to Pakistan for extradition, with Gajinder being one of them.

14-Jan-2025

Canadian journalist Tahir Gora, in an interview with ANI, criticised outgoing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's diplomatic row with India, calling it a failed bid at vote-bank politics amid his declining popularity over economic and immigration issues. Gora expressed scepticism about India-Canada ties improving, citing entrenched Khalistani influence in Canadian politics. He stressed that the Khalistani issue has become Canada's internal problem, tied to rising crime and the glorification of terrorism.

11-Jan-2025

Indian-origin Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya announced his candidacy for Canada’s Prime Minister (PM) on January 11 via a video on X, following Justin Trudeau's resignation. Arya pledged to lead a smaller, efficient government to tackle structural challenges and ensure prosperity. A former close aide of Trudeau, he distanced himself from Trudeau’s anti-India stance and has been a strong advocate for Hindus in Canada. Born in Tumkur, Karnataka, Arya holds an MBA and moved to Canada in 2006.

09-Jan-2025

Ann Seymour of the British Columbia (BC) Prosecution Service, on January 9, confirmed that four Indian nationals accused of murdering Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar—identified as Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh—remain in custody. The trial will proceed before the British Columbia Supreme Court, with a case management conference scheduled for February 11, 2025. Seymour also clarified that reports claiming the accused had been released on bail are false.

09-Jan-2025

On January 9, misinformation about the release on bail of Karan Brar, Amandeep Singh, Kamalpreet Singh, and Karanpreet Singh—accused in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar—spread widely due to misinterpreted court records and unverified social media claims. Ann Seymour of the British Columbia (BC) Prosecution Service refuted these reports, confirming that the accused remain in custody. Their next court appearances are scheduled for February 11, 2025.

08-Jan-2025

Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau has resigned after over nine years in office, citing declining popularity and internal dissent within the Liberal Party. His tenure faced significant challenges, including high immigration levels, housing shortages, and increased reliance on food banks, which strained Canada’s resources. Trudeau drew criticism for his stance on Khalistani elements, internal cabinet resignations, and controversial handling of international issues, notably the Nijjar case. His resignation raises questions about the future of pro-Khalistan separatists in Canada, as his administration’s policies, criticized for harbouring criminal elements, strained relations with India. The Liberal Party is set to choose a new leader to navigate these challenges and prepare for the 2025 federal elections.

06-Jan-2025

Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau resigned as Liberal Party leader on January 6, ahead of an anticipated no-confidence vote, marking a significant fallout from his perceived support for pro-Khalistan leaders. Critics contend that Trudeau's policies, aimed at courting Canada's Sikh diaspora, backfired as Khalistani allies, including Jagmeet Singh’s New Democratic Party (NDP), turned against him. Relations with India and the United States (US) further soured during his tenure, leaving the Liberals vulnerable to a potential defeat in the upcoming elections against Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives. Trudeau’s resignation marks the end of an era amid strained international and domestic ties.

06-Jan-2025

New Democratic Party (NDP) leader Jagmeet Singh criticized Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau on January 6, following his resignation as Liberal Party leader, accusing him of failing Canadians on housing, healthcare, and the cost of living. Singh urged Canadians to "fire the Liberals" and reject the Conservatives, accusing both parties of prioritizing corporate interests over public welfare. He called on voters to support the NDP, promising to advocate for affordable housing, lower grocery costs, and improved healthcare. The NDP also confirmed its plan to oppose the Liberal government in any confidence motion.

06-Jan-2025

Canadian Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau resigned as Liberal Party leader on January 6, ahead of a key caucus meeting in Ottawa, Canada. The Khalistani factor significantly influenced Trudeau's resignation, as former pro-Khalistani allies withdrew support and declared a no-confidence vote. His handling of Khalistani issues also strained relations with India and polarized public opinion in Canada. The Liberal Party now faces an uphill battle in the upcoming election, with polls favoring Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives. Trudeau's ties with the Sikh diaspora and his approach to Khalistani issues remain under intense scrutiny.

21-Dec-2024

Representatives from 30 gurdwaras and Hindu mandirs in British Columbia, Canada, on December 21, formed the United Sikhs and Hindus Association of North America during a meeting at the Khalsa Diwan Society gurdwara in Vancouver. The association aims to promote unity, counter divisive elements, maintain peace, prohibit protests near places of worship, and condemn extremism. Kashmir Singh Dhaliwal was appointed chair of the 20-member coordinating committee.

20-Dec-2024

The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) has recently faced criticism for allegedly targeting dissenters of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s policies, including opponents of the pro-Khalistan movement. Accusations claim the CBC is being used to silence voices such as Indo-Canadian journalists, social media influencers, and politicians. Journalist Daniel Bordman and others have alleged biased reporting, while the Hindu American Foundation (HAF) has accused CBC of spreading disinformation and misrepresenting national security concerns as “Hindu nationalism.” Critics argue that CBC’s actions, coupled with substantial funding from the Liberal government, undermine its mandate of impartial public service journalism.

18-Dec-2024

A recent investigation by CBC uncovered hundreds of posts on X, including suspected bot-generated content, disseminating misinformation about Sikh Canadians and the Khalistan movement. The report also highlighted pro-Khalistani accounts spreading false information to advance their agenda.

18-Dec-2024

The Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) alleged via the social media platform X on December 18 that the Russian Embassy in Canada hacked the Telegram account of deceased Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and shared information with India’s RAW, allegedly leading to his assassination in June 2023. SFJ further claimed that the Telegram account of its chief, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, was compromised as part of a foiled murder plot.

17-Dec-2024

Indo-Canadian businessman Maninder Singh Gill on December 17 revealed that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP has warned him of a potential threat to his life due to his public display of the Indian flag and anti-Khalistan stance, in Surrey in Canada.

17-Dec-2024

Two Indian-origin men, Jaskaran Singh Sidhu and Prabhjyot Bhatti, were recently sentenced to life imprisonment for the 2019 ambush killing of Jasdeep Singh and Japneet Malhi, both Indian-origin drug dealers, amid Calgary gang wars in Canada. Mastermind Amandeep Saggu, who orchestrated the attack as revenge for a 2016 stabbing, was earlier sentenced to eight years for manslaughter. Sidhu and Bhatti have filed appeals, citing trial errors and prejudicial evidence.

15-Dec-2024

The pro-Khalistani group, World Sikh Organisation (WSO) in Canada, announced a "fireside chat" scheduled for December 16 in Surrey, Canada, featuring Daniel Stanton, a former Canadian intelligence officer, to discuss "Indian Transnational Repression." While WSO posters prominently highlight Stanton's participation, his attendance remains unconfirmed. Founded after Operation Bluestar in 1984, WSO has faced criticism for past remarks by its leaders praising individuals linked to the 1985 Air India Flight 182 bombing.

15-Dec-2024

Maninder Singh Gill, managing director of Radio India and a prominent critic of the pro-Khalistan movement in Canada, revealed in an interview with Hindustan Times that he has received formal warnings from law enforcement about threats to his life. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) issued two "duty to warn" notices in 2023 and 2024, linking the threats to his opposition to pro-Khalistan elements. Security measures around Gill’s residence have been heightened, including regular police patrols and the installation of a panic button.

14-Dec-2024

A Canadian report alleged that India is denying visas to Khalistan sympathizers or requiring them to renounce separatism and affirm respect for India's territorial integrity. This policy, reportedly part of a carrot-and-stick approach, targets influential Canadian leaders involved in anti-India activities, highlighting India's firm stance on safeguarding national security and countering Khalistani advocacy abroad.

14-Dec-2024

The Peel Regional Police on December 14 released photos of individuals allegedly involved in violent clashes outside a Hindu temple on November 3, in Brampton, Canada. The incident reportedly involved Khalistan extremists attacking Hindu devotees, prompting police to seek public assistance in identifying the suspects. Authorities assured informants of confidentiality and appealed for community support through social media.

13-Dec-2024

The pro-Khalistani group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) on December 13 staged protests and raised slogans against Russia and India at their consulates in New York, United States (US), and Toronto, Canada, opposing their stance on the separatist movement.

12-Dec-2024

India’s visa policy, which requires pro-Khalistani Canadians to denounce terrorism and affirm allegiance to a united India, has sparked outrage among Khalistanis advocating for the country's fragmentation. Critics highlight the irony of separatists lamenting restrictions on visiting the very nation they oppose. This policy underscores India’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty over accommodating divisive agendas.

12-Dec-2024

A report by the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese (ACFROC) highlights pro-Khalistan leaders in Canada as an example of diaspora-driven political influence, emphasizing their success in pressuring Prime Minister Trudeau’s government to amend references to “Sikh extremism” in a 2018 terrorism report. The study suggests that Chinese Canadian leaders adopt similar mobilization strategies to strengthen Beijing’s political influence in Canada.

11-Dec-2024

According to a report in Global News, Canadian Khalistanis have accused India of allegedly "weaponizing travel visas" to silence Khalistani Canadians by denying them entry unless they renounce the Khalistan movement. The report mentions instances of Sikh Canadians being asked to submit letters affirming their respect for India as a condition for obtaining visas. It also highlights violent protests by Khalistani groups targeting Indian consular camps in Canada, disrupting services for the Indian diaspora.

11-Dec-2024

On December 11, an e-petition sponsored by Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) Sukh Dhaliwal, promoting a discredited conspiracy theory about India’s involvement in the 1985 Air India Flight 182 bombing, closed with 4,238 signatures, triggering a mandatory government response. The theory, rejected by Canadian courts and inquiries, contradicts established findings that pro-Khalistan extremists were responsible for the tragedy, which claimed 329 lives. Critics have accused the Liberal Party of exploiting identity politics, spreading misinformation, and neglecting the harm caused to victims' families.

09-Dec-2024

Khalistani terrorist and leader of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, on December 9 issued threats against Hindu-Canadian Member of Parliament (MP) Chandra Arya for opposing a motion to label the 1984 anti-Sikh riots as genocide. Pannun warned Arya of a "Lalit Makan-like fate." Indian intelligence sources criticized the Canadian government for allowing such threats to be directed at its sitting MPs.

07-Dec-2024

Indo-Canadian community groups met with Canadian law enforcement agencies, including Toronto Police, Peel Regional Police (PRP), and Surrey Police, to address concerns over Hinduphobia and perceived two-tier policing, in an event organised by the Canadian chapter of the Coalition of Hindus of North America (COHNA) in Toronto in Canada on December 7. The meetings highlighted issues such as hate crimes, the November 3 attack on Brampton’s Hindu Sabha Mandir, and distrust towards PRP. Authorities committed to rebuilding trust, encouraging incident reporting, and forming advisory committees to enhance community relations.

06-Jul-2023

James Cleverly, the foreign secretary of the United Kingdom (UK), on July 6 expressed the UK government's strong disapproval of any direct assaults on the High Commission of India in London, stating that such actions would be deemed entirely unacceptable. He also stated that the UK government has communicated to the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami and the Government of India that ensuring the safety of staff at the High Commission is of utmost importance.

05-Jul-2023

On July 5, a number of anonymous Twitter accounts surfaced, sharing posters created by Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), which were promoting a "Kill India" rally in London, United Kingdom (UK) on July 8. The posters falsely implicated two Indian diplomats, Vikram Kumar Doraiswami, the High Commissioner of India to the UK, and Dr. Shashank Vikram, Consul General of India in Birmingham, UK, in the alleged assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist and the leader of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF). Additionally, one of the tweets included a video by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the chief of SFJ, accusing Indian diplomats worldwide of being accountable for Nijjar's murder.

16-Jun-2023

According to Pakistani sources, on June 16, a day after the death of Khalistani separatist Avtar Singh Khanda, the Sikh community in the United Kingdom (UK) demands a full investigation into his death. Khanda was admitted to a Birmingham hospital after complaining of uneasiness and the cause of his death is unclear. Khalsa Aid International's CEO, Ravinder Singh, has urged the UK Police to conduct a thorough investigation and produce a coroner's report regarding the death Khanda. He also said that Khanda's family has also requested a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death. The Sikh community doubts the circumstances surrounding his death and requests a probe to ensure it is not politically motivated. Speculation about poisoning has emerged, but facts are yet to be confirmed.

15-Jun-2023

Avatar Singh Khanda alias Ranjodh Singh, a close associate of Amritpal Singh and the head of the London unit of Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), died at the Sandwell Hospital in Birmingham, United Kingdom (UK) on June 15. The cause of his death is yet to be determined but most likely to be blood cancer. Some reports also indicate food poisoning as the cause of his death. Kanda was booked by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for the attack on the India High Commission in London and was the mastermind behind the lowering the Indian tricolour at the Indian High Commission in London on March 19, 2023. He had allegedly assisted Amritpal Singh, the leader of Waris Punjab De (WPD) evade arrest, while he was on the run from the Punjab Police. Khanda was also a close aide of Paramjit Singh Pamma, who is associated with Babbar Khalsa international (BKI). Besides Pamma, he was also working closely with Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) militant Hardeep Singh Nijjar, and Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, in spearheading the secessionist campaign ‘Referendum 2020’. Khanda, is known for his expertise in bomb-making and had a history of involvement with pro-Khalistan activities. He was involved in radicalizing youth, orchestrating the Red Fort violence in 2021 with Deep Sidhu during the farmers' protest.

15-Jun-2023

Meanwhile, the separatist groups, the Sikh Council UK, Dal Khalsa, the Sikh Federation, and Khalsa Aid collectively urged the United Kingdom (UK) government to conduct a thorough investigation into the tragic demise of Avtar Singh Khanda. Expressing shock and surprise, they highlighted his good health during the '1984 remembrance rally' at Trafalgar Square on June 4.

12-Jun-2023

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on June 12, released CCTV footage of the incident at the Indian High Commission in London, United Kingdom (UK) where the Tricolour Flag was pulled down on March 19, 2023. The footage shows protesters waving Khalistani flags and attempting to vandalize the high commission. British police intervened to prevent further access to the building, while the protesters shouted slogans and abused Indian officials. The NIA has appealed to the public for information on the individuals involved.

12-Jun-2023

According to reports, Avatar Singh Khanda, close associate of Amritpal Singh and the head of the London unit of Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF), was admitted to Birmingham hospital, United Kingdom (UK) after he complained of uneasiness. He is said to be on life support. Khanda, known for his expertise in bomb-making, was the main accused in the vandalism that happened outside the premises of the Indian High Commission in London in March and was allegedly involved in helping Khalistan supporter Amritpal Singh evade arrest by the Punjab Police.

22-May-2023

According to reports, the National Investigation Agency (NIA)'s London visit focuses on Avtar Singh Khanda, a key figure in a pro-Khalistan conspiracy. The investigation aims to uncover a larger transnational plot by pro-Khalistan groups to destabilize Punjab and create unrest in India. Khanda, an asylum seeker in the United Kingdom (UK), is suspected of radicalizing and supporting individuals like Amritpal Singh, who is currently detained under the National Security Act. The NIA hopes to gather evidence linking Khanda to the violent acts in the UK and shed light on his connections to banned Khalistani outfits.

22-May-2023

Punjab-origin woman Mandeep Kaur, residing in north London, has been sentenced to four years and eight months in prison by a United Kingdom (UK) court for her involvement in a large-scale drug supply conspiracy. Following a two-week trial, Kaur was found guilty of conspiracy to supply Class A drugs and conspiracy to possess criminal property.

20-May-2023

According to reports, the British government has not yet located or charged those responsible for the assault on the Indian High Commission in London over two months ago. Around 50 individuals, chanting pro-Khalistan slogans, stormed the building, damaging property and removing the Indian Tricolour on March 19. Despite Indian agencies providing information on seven individuals involved, including known Khalistani activists, no arrests have been made. The delay in action has raised suspicions of intentional inaction, while the Indian government has stationed security guards outside the high commission as a precautionary measure.

19-May-2023

An Indian-origin man among members of a drug smuggling gang was convicted for conspiring to supply cocaine and cannabis from the Netherlands to the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland on May 19. Joshpal Singh Kothiria, a driver from Wolverhampton, played a role in supplying the smuggled drugs to Ireland. The operation was busted by the National Crime Agency (NCA) in the UK.

11-May-2023

The International Forum for Rights and Security (IFFRAS) has published a report on the Khalistan movement, highlighting its threat to Indian sovereignty, Western countries, and the principles of Sikhism. The report identifies certain organizations as the key propagators of Khalistan ideology, engaging in real-world disruptions and exploiting liberal laws to spread their narrative. The Khalistan movement has been compared to the Muslim Brotherhood in its demand for a state based on a narrowly defined religious doctrine and disregard for democratic principles. The movement is fuelled by funds from Pakistani intelligence and Khalistani sympathizers in the West, posing a serious security concern. The IFFRAS report calls for unified international action to counter extremist narratives and promote a global community that respects territorial sovereignty and religious tolerance.

09-May-2023

Sixteen people, including several of Indian-origin, have been convicted following an investigation into an organised crime group involved in international money laundering and people smuggling in west London in United Kingdom (UK). The group is believed to have smuggled over GBP 42 million in cash out of the UK between 2017 and 2019, with the money believed to have come from the sale of banned drugs and organised immigration crime. The group made hundreds of trips to Dubai during this time.

07-May-2023

A report by Colin Bloom, an Independent Faith Engagement Advisor, reveals that pro-Khalistani activities across the globe are being fuelled by a small group of terrorists and extremists, aided and funded by Pakistan. The Khalistani movement uses the freedom provided in Western nations, especially the United Kingdom (UK), to spread hate and extremism and to coerce moderate Sikhs to support their ideology. The majority of Sikhs and Indians living abroad do not support extremism and the call for a separate Khalistan. The Khalistanis use gurdwaras to spread their messages of hate and extremism and to collect funding for their operations.

06-May-2023

Lord Indarjit Singh, a British Sikh peer, will present King Charles with the Coronation Glove, which symbolizes the Sovereign's role as an advocate and challenger for the protection and honour of the people, during the coronation ceremony. Lord Singh will join other faith leaders in the procession and gift presentation.

03-May-2023

A Sikh restaurant owner in London, United Kingdom (UK), Harman Singh Kapoor, received threats to his life after posting a video on TikTok against Khalistan movement. Reports indicate that his restaurant was targeted by supporters of Khalistan and he and his family have been repeatedly harassed and intimidated on social media, including receiving death threats. Harman said that his wife and his daughter received rape threats. Despite reporting the incidents to the authorities, Harman and his family continue to experience a sense of insecurity. Harman has accused the police of stating that they can only intervene if physical harm or loss of life occurs.

02-May-2023

The Sikh Group, a UK-based organization, released 'The Sikhs 100' list of influential Sikhs from around the world in various fields. Takht Hazur Sahib Jathedar Giani Kulwant Singh retained the top position, followed by Akal Takht officiating Jathedar Giani Harpreet Singh. Chief Minister (CM) Bhagwant Mann and Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) chief Harjinder Singh Dhami feature at the third and fourth spot, respectively. Other notable names on the list include former PM Dr Manmohan Singh, Union Minister Hardeep Puri, and actor Diljit Dosanjh.

01-May-2023

The United Kingdom (UK) government-commissioned "Bloom Review" report on how the government should engage with faith groups in England has sparked backlash from British Sikhs and Hindus. The report's chapter on "faith-based extremism" included Sikh extremism and Hindu nationalism alongside Islamist extremism, white supremacy, black nationalism and Buddhist nationalism. The report calls for a more comprehensive understanding of subversive and sectarian Sikh extremist activity in the UK.

30-Apr-2023

According to a report titled “Does government do God” by the United Kingdom (UK) government, Khalistani groups are proliferating in the UK. The report states that Khalistani groups are found often masquerading as human right groups to avoid public scrutiny. The report further indicates that these groups are getting support from some political figures within the parliament. People interviewed for the report stated that they ‘live in fear’ if they disagree with the ideology of these activists. Additionally, the report includes a recorded testimony of a witness who stated that these groups were trying to brainwash the youth to create divisions and promote hatred in India.

30-Apr-2023

An Indian-origin crime gang leader, Raj Singh alias Rajinder Singh Bassi was sentenced to eight years and ten months in prison by a British court after admitting to drug smuggling, money laundering, and assault charges. The United Kingdom (UK)'s National Crime Agency (NCA) proved that Singh ran an organised crime group with Waqas Iqbal and regularly dealt in Class A drugs and firearms. Singh also assaulted a police officer. Iqbal was sentenced to 12 years in prison after admitting to similar charges. The duo were intercepted through their communications on the platform EncroChat by the NCA.

29-Apr-2023

According to report, no one showed up for a protest called by Khalistani extremists outside the Indian High Commission office in London on April 29. The protest was against the use of the term "Sikh extremism" in a report submitted by Colin Bloom, an independent faith engagement adviser. Bloom's report emphasized the need for the United Kingdom (UK) government to define and tackle harmful extremism, highlighting the negative effect extremist groups create on Sikh communities. Despite the call for protests on social media, none turned up.

28-Apr-2023

Colin Bloom, a faith advisor in the United Kingdom (UK), expressed that the Sikh community in the UK is composed of individuals who are generally kind, hardworking, and generous, describing them as beautiful people. However, he also pointed out that there is a small but vocal minority among them who are involved in pro-Pakistan extremism, and are disproportionately aggressive and threatening. Bloom sees the rise of pro-Khalistan extremism as a significant challenge that the British government needs to address and crack down on. He believes that this small extreme minority is letting down the larger Sikh community. Earlier on April 26, the UK government released a report called "Does Government 'do God'?: An independent review into how government engages with faith", authored by Colin Bloom. The report includes a section that focuses on the concerns of some members of the British Sikh community, who have expressed their worry about a small yet highly vocal group that they feel is attempting to co-opt the Sikh faith to advance a subversive pro-Khalistan agenda.

26-Apr-2023

Former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson commissioned an independent report known as the Bloom Review, which has brought attention to a "small, extremely vocal, and aggressive minority of British Sikhs who can be described as pro-Khalistan extremists." The report analyzes the government's engagement with faith groups in England and calls for a more nuanced understanding of "subversive and sectarian activity" within the Sikh community. The report cautions against certain pro-Khalistan Sikh groups that seek to amplify their influence by lobbying political bodies under the guise of human rights activism, thereby presenting a false image of legitimacy. Additionally, it highlights the use of various aliases by some groups to "subvert the British political order," a tactic historically employed by white supremacist and Islamist terrorist groups. According to the report, the subversive, sectarian, and discriminatory activities of these groups are not representative of the majority of British Sikh communities. However, it recognizes that such activities have negatively impacted these communities, underscoring the need for the government to take measures to address and define such harmful extremism.

25-Apr-2023

Chris Blackburn, a British political analyst, expressed concern about Dal Khalsa, an organization that is promoting the Khalistan movement and its supporters across Europe. He tweeted, “Dal Khalsa is doing a lot of heavy lifting for the Khalistan movement in Europe. It’s a blatant lie to say they aren’t instrumental to the leadership of the movement. Their open ties to #Pakistan and their radicalism are the issues. Would you agree?” He also shared images of Dal Khalsa events featuring Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the leader of Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), who has been observed campaigning with members of Dal Khalsa for the referendum on several occasions.

25-Apr-2023

In an open letter addressed to United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, 230 Sikh organizations based in the UK have voiced their concerns, as stated by a spokesperson for the Sikh Federation (UK). The organizations have expressed worry over Sunak's recent actions and described them as troubling, given what they perceive as a trend of suspicion towards the British Sikh community by the UK government, allegedly under pressure from the Indian government.

13-Jan-2025

According to sources close to Nikhil Gupta’s family, the Indian national was arrested in Prague, Czech Republic, in June 2023 and extradited to the United States in June 2024 for his alleged involvement in a murder-for-hire plot targeting Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Gupta, a handicraft business owner, has pleaded not guilty and requested a government-appointed lawyer due to financial constraints. His family claims no support from the Indian government, while Gupta continues to face challenging prison conditions, maintaining his innocence.

11-Jan-2025

Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national indicted in the US for a murder-for-hire plot against Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has claimed innocence, alleging fabricated evidence and mistaken identity. He stated he received consular access in Prague but none since his extradition. Gupta, unable to afford private legal representation, criticised his court-appointed counsel's lack of expertise. Denying any connection to alleged co-conspirator Vikash Yadav, he described his imprisonment as a traumatic experience.

09-Jan-2025

Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national extradited to the United States (US) in June 2023 for his alleged role in a murder-for-hire plot targeting Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, has claimed in an interview with The Indian Express that he has not received consular access from the Indian government since his extradition. Gupta, currently detained at a Brooklyn facility in New York, denies the charges, alleging that the evidence against him has been fabricated. His family has reportedly submitted multiple requests for consular assistance but has yet to receive a response.

02-Jan-2025

The Stockton Police Department is investigating the December 23 killing of Sunil Yadav, a drug smuggler allegedly targeted by a Punjabi gang linked to violence against pro-Khalistan leaders, in Stockton, United States (US). Although police have not confirmed local gang involvement, the incident has raised concerns within the Sikh community. Authorities, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), are working with community leaders to address safety concerns and further investigate the case.

23-Dec-2024

Sunil Yadav alias Goli, a notorious drug lord and former associate of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, was gunned down in Stockton, California, United States (US), on December 23. The Bishnoi group, including US-based gangsters Goldy Brar and Rohit Godara, claimed responsibility for the killing in a social media post. Yadav, who fled to the US using a fake passport after being implicated in the 2019 murder of Ankit Bhadu, was involved in international drug trafficking operations spanning Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Dubai, and the US. His death marks the culmination of a five-year-long pursuit by the Bishnoi group, who sought revenge for Bhadu's killing.

20-Dec-2024

In a recent video message, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatened the Russian and Indian Ambassadors and issued a death threat against the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin. He offered a reward of USD 25,000 for information about the Russian and Indian Ambassadors and blamed Russia for its alleged role in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Pannun also accused Russia of compromising or hacking electronic devices belonging to him and Nijjar.

15-Dec-2024

According to sources, an Indian-origin businessman based in the United States (US) allegedly played a dual role in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and the attempted assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). The businessman reportedly provided intelligence on anti-India groups to Indian authorities but later shared related information with US and Canadian officials, raising questions about his motives. This development has reportedly led US agencies to implicate Indian nationals, further escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Canada.

13-Dec-2024

The pro-Khalistani group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) on December 13 staged protests and raised slogans against Russia and India at their consulates in New York, United States (US), and Toronto, Canada, opposing their stance on the separatist movement.

13-Dec-2024

Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, on December 13 issued a video threat against India's Ambassador to the United States (US), Vinay Kwatra, claiming that he is targeted by pro-Khalistan Sikhs in America. Pannun also accused Russia of assisting India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and National Security Adviser (NSA) against Khalistani advocacy, stating, "India has designated Vinay Kwatra, the Indian Ambassador in Washington DC, to coordinate with Russian diplomats, and now Russian agencies have started providing intelligence and logistics to India’s RAW and NSA against pro-Khalistan Sikhs… Vinay Kwatra is already a target of pro-Khalistan Sikhs in America."

12-Dec-2024

According to report, United States (US) authorities have refused to provide details of bank accounts and phone numbers linked to Khalistani terrorist and chief of the banned Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, citing domestic laws. Pannun, designated a terrorist in India, is accused of inciting the hoisting of a Khalistan flag at the District Administration Complex in Moga, Punjab, in 2020.

11-Dec-2024

United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump recently nominated Harmeet Dhillon, a known Khalistani sympathizer, as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. Dhillon has been outspoken in criticizing India, supporting the farmers' protests, and accusing the Indian government of targeting Sikh activists abroad. Her nomination has sparked controversy, signalling a potentially divisive conservative shift in the Department of Justice's civil rights agenda.

09-Dec-2024

United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump on December 9 announced the nomination of Indian-American lawyer Harmeet Kaur Dhillon as Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights at the Department of Justice in Washington DC. Dhillon, in the past, had a pro-Khalistan stance and had previously accused India of targeting North American Sikhs through covert operations, sparking controversy.

05-Dec-2024

Sukhi Chahal, a member of the Hindus for America Caucus, highlighted the growing threat of Khalistani radicalism in a recent interview with India Today. He emphasized the need for proactive measures by the Indian government and the Sikh diaspora to counter radicalization. Mr. Chahal praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to address historical injustices against Sikhs and called for unity within the community to combat extremist ideologies and promote peace. He also expressed optimism that former U.S. President Donald Trump’s leadership could bolster Indo-U.S. cooperation in addressing shared threats, including extremism.

05-Dec-2024

According to sources, Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national accused of attempting to hire a United States (US) undercover agent to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in New York, has been served summons in a civil lawsuit. The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of New York, names Gupta, the Government of India (GOI), National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, and others as defendants in an alleged plot orchestrated by India's Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) to target Sikh activists. Gupta is currently in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York, awaiting trial in a related criminal case.

26-Nov-2024

In a video message, Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun threatened to shut down Air India's operations in the United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Australia, and other countries by January 26 as part of a 'bloodless war' aimed at harming the Indian economy. Pannun, the leader of the pro-Khalistan group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), also urged Americans to support Donald Trump’s MAGA movement by boycotting Indian industries and flying American airlines, while further promoting his agenda to 'balkanize' India.

21-Nov-2024

Reports indicate that ethnic-Punjabi criminal gangs in North America are strengthening connections with drug cartels and becoming increasingly involved in narcotics trafficking, migrant smuggling, and violent crime. Recent arrests, including those of gangsters linked to separatist movements, highlight the growing transnational networks between these groups and Mexico and Latin America. Experts warn that while their violence remains limited compared to major cartels, the potential for escalation is significant.

19-Nov-2024

According to sources, Anmol Bishnoi, the younger brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi who was recently arrested in the United States (US), is likely to be handed over to Canadian authorities first in connection with the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. While India has sought his extradition, he is currently being interrogated by US authorities. Anmol is implicated in several high-profile crimes, including the murder of Punjabi singer Sidhu Moose Wala and a shooting outside actor Salman Khan's residence.

18-Nov-2024

According to sources, on November 18, Anmol Bishnoi, the younger brother of jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, was detained by police in California, United States (US). He is wanted in India for multiple cases, including the Salman Khan house firing, the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddhique, and his links to pro-Khalistani groups. India is preparing to initiate extradition proceedings against him, supported by an Interpol Red Corner Notice.

17-Nov-2024

Sukhi Chahal, a Sikh activist based in the United States (US), described much of the global Khalistan-related activity as "dukandaari" (commercial opportunism) during a conversation with The Gist, attributing it to asylum seekers and funding from gurdwaras, Pakistan, and sympathisers in the West.

14-Nov-2024

United States (US) President-elect Donald Trump, in Washington DC on November 14, announced his intention to replace federal prosecutor Damian Williams, who had filed a case against former Indian intelligence officer Vikash Yadav over an alleged "murder-for-hire" plot targeting Khalistani leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Trump nominated Jay Clayton, the former Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) chairman, to serve as District Attorney for the Southern District of New York, pending Senate confirmation.

06-Nov-2024

According to sources, Donald Trump’s election victory could challenge Khalistan supporters, as his firm stance against separatism and alignment with moderate Sikh and Hindu communities may weaken their influence in the United States (US) and globally. With moderate Sikh voices increasingly favoring integration, Trump is seen as a supporter of religious harmony and national unity, potentially undermining pro-Khalistan narratives.

05-Nov-2024

On November 5, Indian-Americans strongly condemned the attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton, Canada, by pro-Khalistan extremists and urged Canadian authorities to take swift action. Community leaders, including Bharat Barai and Dr. Adapa Prasad, criticized Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for allegedly fostering anti-India sentiments for political gain. Prominent Sikh leader Jasdip Singh Jassee stated that the attackers do not represent Sikh values, as Sikhs have historically protected Hindu temples. The Coalition of Hindus of North America (COHNA) also denounced the attack, highlighting the systemic anti-Hindu bias faced by Hindu Canadians.

31-Oct-2024

United States (US) State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller on October 31 in Washington DC expressed concern over Canada's allegations against India's Union Home Minister (UHM) Amit Shah.

29-Oct-2024

United States (US) State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller denied reports on October 29 in Washington, DC, that Washington had expelled Indian diplomats amid ongoing tensions between India and Canada. He also addressed the case of former Indian intelligence officer Vikash Yadav, confirming that the US has been in dialogue with India regarding the investigation and emphasising the need for accountability in any findings.

22-Oct-2024

United States (US) State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel stated in Washington, DC, on October 22 that the US 'won’t be fully satisfied' unless India’s investigation into the alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun leads to 'meaningful accountability.' Patel emphasized that the US expects further steps following recent discussions between Indian and US officials.

26-Dec-2024

On December 26, during the first day of the Boxing Day Test match between India and Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), clashes erupted outside the stadium as Indian fans confronted Khalistani supporters. The altercation was triggered by the Khalistani activists' anti-India slogans and alleged desecration of the Indian national flag. The protestors were seen waving Khalistani flags and chanting slogans, leading Victoria Police to step in and disperse the group. Indian fans expressed their disapproval, dismissing the protesters as a small group with no genuine connection to Punjab.

19-Dec-2024

Russia on December 19 denied claims made by the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) and condemned SFJ’s call to “track” diplomats, equating it to planning a terror attack. Russia urged Global Affairs Canada and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to strengthen security for its missions. SFJ had alleged that Russia provided signal intelligence to India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and hacked Nijjar’s Telegram account.

24-Nov-2024

On November 24, Khalistani activists and Kashmiri separatists held a joint protest, condemning the alleged genocide of Sikhs in India since 1984, in Paris, France. The protestors called for justice and freedom, accusing India of human rights violations against both Sikhs and Kashmiris. They also urged international intervention to address these issues.

18-Nov-2024

On November 18, New Zealand’s foreign ministry, in a statement to WION, reaffirmed its recognition of India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity in response to the Khalistani referendum organized by Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) in Auckland on November 17.

17-Nov-2024

On November 17, the Khalistani outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) organized a "referendum" advocating for an independent Khalistan at Aotea Square in Auckland, New Zealand. SFJ claimed that 37,000 Sikhs participated in the event. Despite India's objections, New Zealand defended the referendum as an exercise in free expression.

17-Nov-2024

On November 17, a viral video captured a New Zealand man confronting pro-Khalistan supporters in Auckland, urging them to "go back to your country" and criticizing their display of the Khalistan flag. The incident took place during a contentious Khalistan referendum, which was marked by heavy police presence and videos showing participants wielding swords.

15-Nov-2024

Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly on November 15 stated that she remains in contact with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar regarding inquiries into the arrest of Khalistani terrorist Arshdeep Singh Gill alias Arsh Dalla, while speaking to the media at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Annual Ministerial Meeting in Lima, Peru.

12-Nov-2024

According to sources, New Zealand authorities and community leaders have raised concerns over Khalistani extremist groups organizing another Khalistan Referendum event on November 17 in Auckland. The previous event on October 31 featured alarming displays glorifying the 1984 assassination of former Indian Prime Minister (PM) Indira Gandhi, escalating fears of potential unrest.

09-Nov-2024

Australia Today founder and editor-in-chief Jitarth Jai Bhardwaj, in an interview with ANI, condemned the Canadian government's decision to block the outlet's social media, calling it a "murder of press freedom." This action followed Australia Today's broadcast of a press conference featuring External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, during which he criticised Canada for providing political space to anti-India elements. Bhardwaj emphasized that his outlet, known for covering issues affecting the Indian diaspora, has faced threats from Khalistani extremists but remains committed to reporting on the rights and challenges of Hindu Canadians amidst ongoing concerns about community safety and temple attacks.

08-Nov-2024

Australian media outlet The Australia Today on November 8 reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an open and inclusive media landscape despite being blocked by Canada for airing a press conference featuring Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong. The outlet condemned the move as a violation of free speech and expressed gratitude to its supporters during this challenging time. The incident followed Jaishankar's official visit to Australia, where he addressed rising diplomatic tensions with Canada.

06-Nov-2024

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on November 6, during a meeting with New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters in Canberra, Australia, raised concerns over a planned non-binding "referendum" in Auckland by the Khalistani terror outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), advocating for the creation of Khalistan.

05-Nov-2024

Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong, during a meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar in Canberra on November 5, expressed concerns over allegations of India's involvement in targeting Sikh activists in Canada. Wong reiterated Australia's commitment to respecting the sovereignty and judicial processes of both nations.

05-Nov-2024

Indian External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, in Canberra, Australia, on November 5, expressed serious concerns over the recent targeting of the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton, Canada, by pro-Khalistan separatists. He criticized Canada for providing "political space" to extremist forces.

02-Nov-2024

In the past week in Auckland, New Zealand, thousands gathered under the Khalistan Movement banner to protest the 1984 anti-Sikh violence, drawing attention to the human rights violations and loss of lives during that tragic period. Demonstrators held Khalistan flags, chanted against the Indian government, and tore the Indian flag in dissent, with leaders at the rally calling for the establishment of Khalistan.

01-Nov-2024

On November 1, a pro-Khalistan protest in Auckland, New Zealand, saw a minimal turnout, with fewer than 30 attendees from the country’s 75,000-strong Sikh community. Community leaders attributed the low support to the patriotic sentiments of the Indian diaspora, who largely reject the separatist agenda. While the New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA) raised concerns about foreign elements promoting Khalistani ideology, the government emphasized free speech rights but assured law enforcement oversight.

31-Oct-2024

New Zealand's recent ambivalence toward pro-Khalistan activities, including an October 19 rally led by Khalistani terrorist Avtar Singh Pannun, raises questions about its diplomatic consistency, particularly as it seeks to strengthen ties with India. The rally featured hate speech and desecration of the Indian flag, highlighting a tension between New Zealand's commitment to free speech and the geopolitical imperative of fostering positive relations with India, which designates Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) as a terrorist organization. As New Zealand navigates this complex landscape, it faces the challenge of balancing free expression with preventing separatist activities from jeopardizing international partnerships.

31-Oct-2024

Sources report that a proposed non-binding referendum for an independent Khalistan in India is under review by the New Zealand government as members of the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), led by Khalistani terrorist Avtar Singh Pannun, intensify efforts to hold the poll in Auckland on November 17. New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reaffirmed its support for freedom of speech while also recognizing India’s sovereignty, amid rising concerns from local Indian associations about the referendum’s potential impact on diplomatic relations between New Zealand and India.

30-Oct-2024

Former New Zealand National Party Member of Parliament (MP) Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi expressed concerns about an upcoming Khalistan referendum organized by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, leader of the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), in Auckland, New Zealand. Bakshi warned that such events could strain New Zealand-India relations, emphasizing that the referendum does not reflect the views of the broader Sikh community, which is focused on integrating into New Zealand society while maintaining cultural ties with India.

24-Oct-2024

A New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) spokesperson stated on October 24 in Auckland that New Zealand recognizes India's sovereignty and territorial integrity, responding to a non-official “referendum” call by the Khalistani outfit Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) for a separate Sikh state in India.

23-Oct-2024

Indian Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on October 23 called for united global efforts to combat terrorism and criticised double standards on the issue, while speaking at the BRICS summit in Kazan in Russia. He indirectly addressed countries like China, Canada, and the United States (US) for not acting decisively against terrorists and extremists. Modi also emphasised the need for reforms in global institutions like the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and stressed the importance of dialogue and diplomacy to resolve conflicts.

15-Oct-2024

According to reports, Indian National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval informed Canadian officials about Lawrence Bishnoi's extensive reach and ability to orchestrate violence even while incarcerated, during a secret meeting in Singapore. The discussions also included evidence suggesting that India had leveraged Bishnoi's gang networks in Canada to carry out violent acts, including the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

12-Oct-2024

A report in The Globe and Mail states that Canada proposed a de-escalation strategy to India on October 12 during a meeting in Singapore. The strategy included suggestions for India to voluntarily withdraw six diplomats, instruct gangster Lawrence Bishnoi to cease his syndicate’s activities in Canada, and expand India’s inquiry into the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Alternatively, Canada proposed conducting a joint investigation into Nijjar's death.

10-Oct-2024

On October 10, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos. After the meeting, PM Trudeau stated that there was no substantive discussion but acknowledged that both sides had work to do to improve relations. Indian government sources emphasized that ties cannot be repaired unless Canada takes strict and verifiable action against Khalistani separatists and prevents anti-India activities on its soil.

15-Sep-2024

Surinder Singh Parmar, a member of the Austrian Sikh community, highlighted on September 15 in Vienna, Austria, that while Sikhism is officially recognized, it lacks comprehensive judicial protection. Sikhs must comprise at least 2% of the population for their faith to achieve full legal recognition, which poses challenges in addressing sacrilege issues through the courts. Despite this, Sikhs can use "Singh" and "Kaur" in official documents and list Sikhism as their religion. Parmar emphasized that judicial recognition would significantly benefit the community in practicing and promoting Sikhism.

28-Aug-2024

Authorities in Qatar on August 28 handed over two swaroops of Guru Granth Sahib, which had been seized from an Indian national in a case related to running a religious establishment without approvals, to the Indian Embassy in Doha. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had taken up the issue with Qatar and prioritized the matter due to its significance to the Sikh community.