Thousands Attend Unofficial Khalistan Referendum in Ottawa Organised by Banned SFJ

Thousands of Canadian Sikhs reportedly gathered in Ottawa to participate in an unofficial and non-binding "Khalistan Referendum" on Sunday. The exercise was organised by Sikh's for Justice (SFJ), an outfit banned in India under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Participants were asked to cast their ballots for or against the creation of a separate state of Khalistan and the secession of Punjab from India.

SFJ claimed that over 53,000 individuals from various Canadian provinces queued for nearly two kilometres to vote. Video footage from the event showed extensive queues outside the community centre, with many voters, including families with children and seniors, remaining in line past the scheduled closing time.

Police liaison officers were present, and slogans were raised by supporters. The groups general counsel, a designated terrorist, addressed attendees via satellite message. The event concluded with an act of desecration of the Indian flag. Canadian authorities have unequivocally stated that they do not recognise the referendum, affirming it carries no legal standing.