The US-based organisation, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), has organised a car rally in Auckland to demand a separate state for Sikhs within India. This has raised concerns for New Zealand-India relations and prompted the government to respond, stating that they support peaceful and lawful initiatives. The SFJ, which has been banned by India for its alleged terrorist links, plans to hold a non-official and non-binding "referendum" in Auckland on 17 November to advocate for the creation of an independent homeland for Sikhs in India.
Sikhs for Justice Rally in Auckland Raises Concerns for NZ-India Relations
Background:
The Sikh diaspora has a significant presence in New Zealand, with the Sikh community estimated to number around 15,000. The community has historically played an important role in the country's social and economic development.
However, the recent announcement of a car rally in Auckland by the US-based organization Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has sparked controversy and raised concerns for New Zealand-India relations.
The Referendum:
The SFJ has organized a non-official and non-binding "referendum" in Auckland on November 17th. The referendum aims to gauge support for the creation of an independent homeland for Sikhs within India, known as Khalistan.
The Indian government has banned the SFJ for its alleged terrorist links and has strongly condemned the referendum. India considers the Khalistan movement to be a separatist and terrorist activity that poses a threat to its national security.
Government Response:
The New Zealand government has expressed concern over the SFJ rally and referendum. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern stated that New Zealand supports peaceful and lawful initiatives, but does not endorse separatism.
The government has also emphasized that it does not recognize the so-called referendum and will not allow any activities that could potentially jeopardize New Zealand's friendly relations with India.
Top 5 FAQs:
1. What is the history of the Khalistan movement?
The Khalistan movement emerged in the 1970s as a call for a separate Sikh state within India. The movement gained momentum during political unrest and discrimination against Sikhs in the Punjab region.
2. Why is the Indian government opposed to the Khalistan movement?
The Indian government views the Khalistan movement as a threat to its national unity and sovereignty. It considers separatist movements to be unconstitutional and a violation of its territorial integrity.
3. What is the goal of the SFJ's referendum in Auckland?
The SFJ claims that the referendum will provide an opportunity for Sikhs around the world to express their support for Khalistan and to pressure India to recognize their demands.
4. Has the SFJ been banned in New Zealand?
No, the SFJ has not been banned in New Zealand. However, the government has expressed concerns about the organization's activities and has stated that it will not tolerate any illegal or disruptive behavior.
5. What are the potential consequences of the SFJ rally and referendum for New Zealand-India relations?
The rally and referendum could potentially strain relations between New Zealand and India, particularly if they are perceived as supporting separatism or terrorism. The New Zealand government has stressed the importance of maintaining friendly and cooperative ties with India.
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