#USA #Washington, DC #Khalistan Referendum #Sikhs For Justice #Gurpatwant Pannun

Sikhs For Justice Holds Press Conference on Khalistan Referendum

Introduction

On August 8, 2025, Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) will conduct a crucial press conference at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. This event aims to shed light on pressing issues surrounding the Khalistan Referendum and the alleged transnational repression by the Indian government against its supporters in the US and Punjab.

The Context: Khalistan Referendum

The Khalistan Referendum is a vital initiative launched by Sikhs For Justice, providing the Sikh community a platform to vote on whether Punjab, currently governed by India, should be an independent nation. This unprecedented movement commenced on October 31, 2021, beginning in London and expanding globally to various countries including Canada, Australia, Switzerland, and Italy. The vote is being overseen by the Punjab Referendum Commission, ensuring compliance with international voting standards.

Press Conference Insights

The event features key speakers such as Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, an attorney and general counsel for SFJ, who is recognized for his activism and survival of an assassination attempt orchestrated by India's intelligence agency, RAW. Dr. Bakhshish Singh Sandhu, the President of the Council of Khalistan, will also address the audience.

The press conference will provide an in-depth understanding of the Khalistan Referendum, the rationale behind it, and India's reaction, including violent responses against organizers and advocates both in the homeland and abroad. Key issues discussed are expected to include:
• An overview of the Khalistan Referendum process.
• Details regarding a foiled assassination plot against Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
• Insights into India's attempts to suppress this movement through transnational actions.

Ongoing Challenges

One of the notable cases to be discussed is an incident where US law enforcement intervened to foil an alleged assassination plot against Pannun, highlighting the serious implications of the Indian government's strategy against critics abroad. The incident led to the extradition of Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, and the indictment of RAW official Vikash Yadav in a Federal District Court of New York.

As dialogue intensifies, the SFJ emphasizes the importance of creating an independent nation for Sikhs, where their rights and cultural identity are preserved. The organization claims that India's Modi regime continuously undermines this objective through intimidation and aggression against those who support the Khalistan Referendum.

Conclusion

As media representatives gather for this significant press event, SFJ aims to engage with journalists and provide a platform for critical discussions that revolve around human rights and the quest for justice for the Sikh community. This conference not only sheds light on the Khalistan Referendum but also underscores the ongoing struggle for freedom and self-determination facing numerous activists today.

Join us on August 8 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM at the Lisagor Room, National Press Club, Washington, DC. This press conference promises to be an enlightening session for those interested in global human rights issues and the Sikh diaspora's advocacy for recognition and autonomy.