Washington: On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, a large group of Sikhs gathered outside the Indian Embassy in Washington, DC, to protest against the policies of the Modi government and call for justice for Sikh victims.

According to Kashmir Media Service announcement issued on 16 August 2024, the protestors, many of whom are of Indian origin, expressed their dissent by waving Khalistan flags and chanting slogans such as “We will get Khalistan,” “Punjab, Haryana, Delhi will be Khalistan,” “Long live Khalistan,” “Down with Modi,” and “Down with India.” The demonstration also included the symbolic burning of the Indian flag, underscoring the intensity of the grievances felt by the participants.

Speakers at the event accused the Indian Embassy of being a “killer house” where plans against Sikhs are allegedly formulated. They cited recent violent incidents involving Sikhs, including the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and the attempted assassination of Gurpatwant Singh Pannun in North America, attributing these actions to the Indian government. The speakers called for accountability and the cessation of what they described as the persecution of Sikhs by the Indian authorities.

Furthermore, the speakers addressed the broader issue of minority oppression in India, asserting that Sikhs and other minority groups continue to face challenges and discrimination. They also extended their support to the Kashmiri Muslims’ struggle for self-determination, emphasizing the universal right to freedom.

The protest highlighted the ongoing efforts by some members of the Sikh community to hold Khalistan referendums abroad as part of their push for an independent Sikh state. The demonstrators, who traveled from various U.S. cities to participate, made it clear that they do not recognize India’s Independence Day as a celebration, viewing it instead as an opportunity to voice their demands for Sikh sovereignty.