Over 37,500 Sikhs Participate in Khalistan Referendum in Auckland on November 17, 2024

On November 17, 2024, over 37,500 Sikhs gathered at Auckland’s Aotea Square to cast their votes in the Khalistan Referendum, marking a significant moment for the Sikh community in New Zealand. The referendum was part of a global campaign led by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), advocating for the establishment of an independent Sikh nation, Khalistan.

The SFJ team spent over two months in New Zealand, engaging with the local Sikh community to rally support for the referendum. They received substantial backing from local organizations, including Patshahi Daawa New Zealand, as well as Gurudwaras across the country. Weekly campaigns were conducted, with pamphlets distributed at Gurudwaras to raise awareness and encourage participation.

A series of car rallies played a pivotal role in building momentum for the referendum. The campaign kicked off with a highly successful car rally in Auckland, which set the tone for subsequent rallies held in Tauranga, Wellington, Palmerston North, and Christchurch. These events not only brought the community together but also highlighted the determination of Sikhs to voice their aspirations for a separate homeland.

Despite significant pressure from the Indian government on New Zealand authorities to halt the referendum, the New Zealand government upheld the democratic rights of its Sikh citizens to participate in the vote. Pro-Indian media outlets in New Zealand attempted to discredit the referendum and create a negative narrative, but these efforts failed to dampen the enthusiasm of the Sikh community.

The high turnout at the referendum underscored the unwavering commitment of New Zealand’s Sikh population to their dream of Khalistan. This event not only demonstrated their collective determination but also reaffirmed the importance of democratic processes in addressing the aspirations of minority communities.