US approves Khalistan Referendum despite India’s opposition
Gurpatwant Singh Pannu signals armed struggle against India
Washington: The United States permitted the Khalistan referendum to proceed in Seattle, despite opposition from India and rising global tensions over attacks on Sikh leaders abroad, with over 27,000 Sikh voters participating.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the referendum, organized by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), is part of a global movement seeking independence for Sikhs. This event has heightened tensions between India and the global Sikh diaspora, with India facing accusations of targeting Sikh leaders overseas.
Voting officially began on Sunday morning at 9 a.m. local time, with organisers ensuring all necessary facilities, including food and refreshments, were provided for the attendees.
The referendum in Seattle, the first of its kind in the city, is led by Gurpatwant Singh Pann, who emphasised the historical resilience of Punjab and expressed confidence in a transformative future.
Downtown Seattle has been adorned with Khalistani flags, creating a vibrant atmosphere as participants arrived in large numbers to exercise their vote.
This event follows previous referendums held around the world, including Ottawa on 23 November 2025, as well as London, Toronto, Vancouver, Rome, and Geneva.
Millions of Sikhs globally have participated in past votes in favor of Khalistan, highlighting the continued international mobilization of the community.
India has faced accusations of targeting Sikh leaders overseas, including the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
Such incidents have heightened tensions between the Indian state and the global Sikh diaspora, with organizers questioning India’s stated indifference to the referendum.
Gurpatwant Singh Pann asserted, “I fear not death, and I believe that due to Punjab’s resistant history, India’s map will change over the next 10 to 15 years.”
Gurpatwant Singh Pannu in a video address hinted at taking up arms in response to the state repression by India. Pannu emphasized that the movement for Sikh freedom will continue until its objectives are fully achieved and pledged to raise the issue at global forums, particularly the United Nations. Analysts said the call for armed struggle is intended to present the matter before international opinion, highlighting continued grievances of the Sikh community in India’s Punjab.
According to observers, a referendum on Khalistan was recently held in Seattle, with over 27,000 Sikh voters participating. Thousands cast their votes in favor of an independent Khalistan, while participants raised slogans supporting the cause and protesting alleged injustices by the Indian government. Organizers confirmed the referendum was conducted in a structured and transparent manner, with independent observer Don Waters declaring the process free, fair, and in line with international standards. Analysts noted that the Seattle vote forms part of a global campaign to assert the right to self-determination for Sikhs abroad.
