Khalistan protests overshadow Modi’s Europe visit
#KhalistanReferendum/#ModiInNorway/#KhalistanMovement
The Hague: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced strong protests by Khalistan supporters during his Europe tour, while analysts said his Netherlands visit was heavy on optics but lacked substantive outcomes.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Khalistan Referendum activists staged demonstrations in Gothenburg, Sweden, and The Hague against Modi and Indian policies targeting minorities, particularly Sikhs.
Protesters raised slogans demanding accountability for the killing of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and alleged plots against Sikh activists abroad, including Paramjeet Singh Pamma.In Gothenburg, protesters gathered outside Hotel Gothia Towers on the night of May 16-17, accusing Modi’s government of repression and intimidation. They also highlighted the plight of Sikh farmers in Punjab, saying economic policies benefit corporate groups at the expense of local communities. Similar protests erupted in The Hague, with demonstrators chanting in favor of Khalistan and against transnational targeting of Sikh activists.
Modi’s visit to Norway also drew a storm of protest from Sikh demonstrators in Oslo, who said the trip had turned into a global embarrassment for New Delhi.
Carrying Khalistan flags outside Oslo City Hall, they raised slogans against Hindutva politics and accused the Indian government of silencing dissent and targeting pro-Khalistan voices abroad. Protesters questioned Norway’s decision to honor Modi while allegations of intimidation and transnational repression against Sikh activists continue to surface globally.Khalistan activists said diplomatic awards cannot erase growing international scrutiny over India’s treatment of minorities and Sikh dissenters.
The demonstrations, which included protesters waving Khalistan flags and tearing Indian flags, transformed what was meant to be a ceremonial visit into a politically charged confrontation.
The turnout in Norway reinforced that the Khalistan issue continues to resonate internationally despite India’s attempts to diplomatically isolate the movement.
Analysts said Modi’s Netherlands visit was projected by Indian media as a diplomatic breakthrough but offered little beyond symbolic declarations.
