Nadeem Tufail reported on the Khalistan Referendum taking place in Calgary.

The ongoing presence of the Khalistan movement in Calgary and the participation of individuals in events that advocate for Khalistani independence. It's important to recognize that opinions and expressions of political views can vary widely within any community, including the Sikh diaspora.

The Khalistan movement is a political campaign that seeks an independent state for Sikhs within the Punjab region of India. The demand for a separate Sikh homeland gained prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s, leading to significant unrest and the 1984 Indian military operation in the Golden Temple. The movement has since evolved and is supported by some individuals and organizations outside India, particularly in countries with substantial Sikh populations such as Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The Khalistan Referendums, including the one you mentioned in Calgary, are part of a non-binding global campaign organized by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), a U.S.-based secessionist group. These referendums aim to gauge support for an independent Khalistan. However, it's essential to note that the Indian government does not recognize these referendums and considers the concept of Khalistan as secessionist and against its national unity and territorial integrity.

The Vaisakhi Parade, or Nagar Kirtan, is a traditional Sikh procession that celebrates the birth of the Khalsa, the community of Sikh initiates, and is typically a peaceful religious event commemorating the Sikh faith's foundational principles. However, it has also been used as a platform by some to express political views, including support for Khalistan.

While the presence of Khalistan flags and participation in related events indicate that the issue is important to some individuals, it is also crucial to acknowledge that not all Sikhs support the creation of a separate nation. The Sikh community is diverse and has a complex relationship with the concept of Khalistan, with many advocating for religious freedom and rights within the existing framework of India.

Predicting the rise of a new nation is a complex and sensitive matter, and it's important to consider the broader political, social, and diplomatic implications of such claims. The future of the Khalistan movement will depend on various factors, including the actions of the Indian government, the international community's response, and the evolving aspirations of the Sikh community itself. It is always constructive to engage in dialogue and promote peaceful resolution of differences while respecting the rights of individuals to express their views within the bounds of the law and peaceful protest.