Calgary: Thousands of Sikhs gathered at Municipal Plaza in Calgary, located opposite the local United States diplomatic mission, to participate in the Khalistan Referendum vote. This event seeks the creation of an independent state for the Sikh nation.
According to Kashmir Media Service, the referendum was organized by the pro-Khalistan group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). The event was held to gauge the opinions of Sikhs in Alberta, Canada, on establishing an independent Sikh state. Canada is home to approximately one million Sikhs, with nearly 100,000 residing in Calgary. Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s family, surrounded by prominent Khalistan figures, were among the first to cast their votes.
The SFJ leader dedicated the Calgary voting session to nine Canadian Sikhs who were allegedly assassinated by India for their support of Khalistan. These individuals are Lakhbir Singh Rode, Bhupinder Singh Kooner, Harjinder Singh Para, Talwinder Singh Parmar, Surinder Singh Shinder Commando, Balbir Singh Khaira, Jathedar Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Mohinder Singh Kooner, and Surinder Singh Ravi.
The event began with Sikh prayers led by local religious figures from the Gurdawara Dashmesh Culture Centre. Participants, including men, women, youth, children, and the elderly from across the province, formed long lines to cast their votes in this non-binding referendum. The goal of this referendum is to collect the opinions of Sikhs worldwide before presenting the results to the United Nations.
Outside city hall, participants waved Khalistan flags and displayed large posters commemorating Sikhs who are considered martyrs for the cause and revered globally.