New Zealand’s Indian community, known for its unity and positive contributions, have strongly opposed the divisive and bogus Khalistan agenda promoted by a small group of visitors from the United States of America (USA) and Canada.
Prominent Indian community members, including the New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA), has expressed grave concerns, warning that the SFJ-led bogus referendum could strain relations between New Zealand and India.
Former National MP Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, New Zealand’s first India-born politician, expressed concerns over the upcoming Khalistan referendum, warning that it could harm New Zealand-India relations given India’s firm stance on territorial integrity.
Bakshi emphasised to NZ Herald,
“the proposed referendum on Khalistan will likely hurt New Zealand-India relations, particularly given India’s apparent position on the issue of its territorial integrity.”
Bakshi added that the referendum has “minimal support from the Sikh community in New Zealand,” stressing that it is driven by “a tiny and vocal minority” influenced by external forces.
Rupinder Virk, President of Country Section New Zealand Indian Association (CSNZIA), told NZ Herald:
“We don’t support any extremism or discrimination, especially if it is against India.”
This planned bogus referendum to crate strife among Sikhs and Hindus in the diaspora communities is organised by US-based group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), banned in India labelling it a terrorist organisation under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for its alleged anti-India activities.
The event is set for 17 November in Aotea Square, marking the latest in a series of similar events held by the group across cities in Canada, Australia, and the UK.
India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr S. Jaishankar, reportedly raised the issue with New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters at the Raisina Down Under conference in Canberra, according to New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT).
NZICA President Narendra Bhana described the event as “deeply offensive” to the Indian diaspora in New Zealand, pointing to recent rallies in Auckland where the Indian flag was desecrated.
“The Indian community in New Zealand stands united in its resolve to reject external influences that do not align with the values of community and respect, which are central to the diverse cultures coexisting in this country.”
Meanwhile, Tātaki Auckland Unlimited (TAU) and New Zealand Police have both recognised the event’s right to proceed under New Zealand’s freedom of expression laws.
The TAU, which confirmed Aotea Square as the venue, reiterated its apolitical stance, highlighting its commitment to maintaining public safety at large gatherings.
“It is important that TAU remains apolitical in its own activities, including the venues, events and major cultural festivals it delivers on behalf of Auckland Council. To do that, it must make decisions which might upset some groups – given the many political and human rights causes which people in our community feel passionate about.”
In December 2023, three religious extremists were convicted in the attempted murder of Harnek Singh, a liberal Auckland-based radio host.
Sukhpreet Singh was found guilty as an accessory, while Sarvjeet Sidhu admitted to attempted murder. During sentencing, Judge Mark Woolford highlighted the need for community protection and deterrence, emphasising the crime’s “hallmarks of religious fanaticism.”
Harnek Singh suffered over 40 stab wounds in a 2020 ambush outside his home, which he attributed to his liberal views on Sikhism, contrasting with his attackers’ conservative beliefs.
Keeping in mind the violent history of Khalistani ideology, Indian community organisations in New Zealand are urging vigilance against foreign influences they say could disrupt peace and foster division. The NZICA specifically calls on New Zealand authorities to take a strong stance against SFJ’s activities.
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