Editing Khalistan movement (section)

=== 2000s ===

==== Retribution ====
There have been serious charges levelled by human rights activists against Indian Security forces (headed by Sikh police officer, [[Kanwar Pal Singh Gill|K. P. S. Gill]]), claiming that thousands of suspects were killed in staged shootouts and thousands of bodies were cremated/disposed of without proper identification or post-mortems.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://hrw.org/reports/2007/india1007/1.htm |title=Protecting the Killers: A Policy of Impunity in Punjab, India: I. Summary |publisher=Human Rights Watch |date=9 October 2006 |access-date=11 January 2010 |archive-date=12 October 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081012184325/http://hrw.org/reports/2007/india1007/1.htm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>[http://news.sbs.com.au/dateline/india__who_killed_the_sikhs_130052 Special Broadcasting Service:: Dateline – presented by George Negus<!-- Bot generated title -->] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080828164401/http://news.sbs.com.au/dateline/india__who_killed_the_sikhs_130052 |date=28 August 2008 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/2005/09/09/stories/2005090903181100.htm |title=The Hindu: Opinion / News Analysis: Is justice possible without looking for the truth? |work=The Hindu |date=9 September 2005 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080522062426/http://www.hinduonnet.com/2005/09/09/stories/2005090903181100.htm |archive-date=22 May 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.amnestyusa.org/document.php?lang=e&id=F072BE8A8A0506C08025690000692C86 |title=India: A vital opportunity to end impunity in Punjab |publisher=Amnesty International USA |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090625031306/http://www.amnestyusa.org/document.php?id=F072BE8A8A0506C08025690000692C86&lang=e |archive-date=25 June 2009 }}</ref> [[Human Rights Watch]] reported that, since 1984, government forces had resorted to widespread human rights violations to fight the militants, including: [[Arbitrary arrest and detention|arbitrary arrest]], [[Indefinite detention|prolonged detention without trial]], [[torture]], and [[summary execution]]s of civilians and suspected militants. Family members were frequently detained and tortured to reveal the whereabouts of relatives sought by the police.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hrw.org/reports/1992/WR92/ASW-07.htm |title=ASW |publisher=Human Rights Watch |year=1992 |access-date=11 January 2010 |archive-date=12 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012082133/http://www.hrw.org/reports/1992/WR92/ASW-07.htm |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2007-10-18|title=India: Time to Deliver Justice for Atrocities in Punjab|url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2007/10/18/india-time-deliver-justice-atrocities-punjab|access-date=2023-01-14|publisher=Human Rights Watch|language=en|archive-date=13 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230113222558/https://www.hrw.org/news/2007/10/18/india-time-deliver-justice-atrocities-punjab|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Amnesty International]] has alleged several cases of disappearances, torture, rape, and unlawful detentions by the police during the [[Punjab insurgency]], for which 75–100 police officers had been convicted by December 2002.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/ASA20/002/2003/en/uvSEW2lMY-gJ |title=Document – India: Break the cycle of impunity and torture in Punjab &#124; Amnesty International |publisher=Amnesty International |year=2003 |access-date=11 January 2010 |archive-date=12 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110612055224/http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/ASA20/002/2003/en/uvSEW2lMY-gJ |url-status=dead }}</ref>

==== 2010s ====
Activities in the 2010s by Khalistani militants include the [[Tarn Taran Sahib|Tarn Taran]] blast, in which a police crackdown arrested 4 terrorists, one of whom revealed they were ordered by [[Sikhs for Justice]] to kill multiple Dera leaders in India.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/punjab-four-khalistan-zindabad-force-terrorists-arrested-in-taran-taran-1602155-2019-09-23|title=Punjab: Four Khalistan Zindabad Force terrorists arrested in Taran Taran|first=Manjeet|last=Sehgal|date=23 September 2019|website=India Today|language=en|access-date=2019-12-27|archive-date=15 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191215193336/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/punjab-four-khalistan-zindabad-force-terrorists-arrested-in-taran-taran-1602155-2019-09-23|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/archive/nia-demands-custody-of-4-in-tarn-taran-blast-case-872611|title=NIA demands custody of 4 in Tarn Taran blast case|last=Service|first=Tribune News|website=Tribuneindia News Service|language=en|access-date=2019-12-27|archive-date=27 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191227101954/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/archive/nia-demands-custody-of-4-in-tarn-taran-blast-case-872611|url-status=live}}</ref> Pro-Khalistan organisations such as [[Dal Khalsa (International)|Dal Khalsa]] are also active outside India, supported by a section of the Sikh diaspora.<ref>{{cite news|last=Punj|first=Balbair|date=16 June 2005|title=The Ghost of Khalistan|newspaper=The Sikh Times|url=http://www.sikhtimes.com/news_061605a.html|access-date=23 January 2007|archive-date=4 December 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181204053015/http://www.sikhtimes.com/news_061605a.html|url-status=live}}</ref> As of 25 December, there also have been inputs by multiple agencies about a possible attack in Punjab by Babbar Khalsa and [[Khalistan Zindabad Force]], according to Indian Media sources, are allegedly in contact with their Pakistani handlers and are trying to smuggle arms across the border.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-terror-attacks-in-punjab-being-planned-by-pro-khalistan-outfits-with-pak-s-support-intelligence-sources-2806891|title=Terror attacks in Punjab being planned by pro-Khalistan outfits with Pak's support: Intelligence sources|date=2019-12-26|website=DNA India|language=en|access-date=2019-12-27|archive-date=27 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191227101955/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-terror-attacks-in-punjab-being-planned-by-pro-khalistan-outfits-with-pak-s-support-intelligence-sources-2806891|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.oneindia.com/india/high-alert-declared-after-ib-picks-up-intercepts-on-possible-terror-attack-in-punjab-3003706.html|title=High alert declared after IB picks up intercepts on possible terror attack in Punjab|last=Nanjappa|first=Vicky|date=2019-12-26|website=Oneindia|language=en|access-date=2019-12-27|archive-date=27 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191227101956/https://www.oneindia.com/india/high-alert-declared-after-ib-picks-up-intercepts-on-possible-terror-attack-in-punjab-3003706.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

In November 2015, a congregation of the Sikh community (i.e. a [[Sarbat Khalsa]]) was called in response to recent unrest in the Punjab region. The Sarbat Khalsa adopted 13 resolutions to strengthen Sikh institutions and traditions. The 12th resolution reaffirmed the resolutions adopted by the Sarbat Khalsa in 1986, including the declaration of the sovereign state of Khalistan.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Official Resolutions From Sarbat Khalsa 2015|url=https://www.sikh24.com/2015/11/11/official-resolutions-from-sarbat-khalsa-2015/|website=Sikh24.com|date=11 November 2015|access-date=2015-11-12|archive-date=12 November 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151112204950/http://www.sikh24.com/2015/11/11/official-resolutions-from-sarbat-khalsa-2015/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Moreover, signs in favour of Khalistan were raised when SAD (Amritsar) President Simranjeet Singh Mann met with [[Surat Singh Khalsa]], who was admitted to [[Dayanand Medical College & Hospital]] (DMCH). While Mann was arguing with ACP Satish Malhotra, supporters standing at the main gate of DMCH raised Khalistan signs in the presence of heavy police force. After a confrontation with the police authorities that lasted about 15–20 minutes, Mann was allowed to meet Khalsa along with ADCP Paramjeet Singh Pannu.<ref>{{cite web|title=Khalistan slogans raised as Mann comes to meet Khalsa|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/punjab-and-haryana/khalistan-slogans-raised-as-mann-comes-to-meet-khalsa/|date=25 July 2015|website=The Indian Express|access-date=14 August 2015|archive-date=27 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150827103746/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/punjab-and-haryana/khalistan-slogans-raised-as-mann-comes-to-meet-khalsa/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Maintaining persistent connection their culture and religion, the Sikh diaspora outside India is seen increasingly supporting the movement by means of financial support, propaganda and political lobbying in the countries they reside and taking a prominent role in driving the movement. Emboldened by expansive political and financial ties, the Diaspora has used gurudwaras, among other available establishments as such, to disperse financial and diplomatic aid to the movement in Punjab and modern communication modes such as the internet and social media to rally support for it.<ref name="stsfor.org">{{cite web |title=Probable Resurgence of the Khalistan Movement: Role of the Sikh Diaspora – Science, Technology and Security forum |url=http://stsfor.org/content/probable-resurgence-khalistan-movement-role-sikh-diaspora |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151016211428/http://stsfor.org/content/probable-resurgence-khalistan-movement-role-sikh-diaspora |archive-date=16 October 2015 |access-date=2 April 2023 |website=stsfor.org }}</ref>

Recently, many signs have been raised in several places in support of the Khalistan movement, although the [[Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada]] (IRB) reports that Sikhs who support Khalistan may themselves be detained and tortured.<ref>{{cite web|title=Responses to Information Requests|url=https://www.irb-cisr.gc.ca/en/country-information/rir/Pages/index.aspx?doc=455887&pls=1|date=5 June 2018|website=irb-cisr.gc.ca|language=en|access-date=14 August 2019|archive-date=14 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190814162713/https://www.irb-cisr.gc.ca/en/country-information/rir/Pages/index.aspx%3Fdoc%3D455887%26pls%3D1|url-status=live}}</ref> Notably, on the 31st anniversary of [[Operation Bluestar]], pro-Khalistan signs were raised in Punjab, resulting in 25 Sikh youths being detained by police.<ref>{{cite web|title=Pro-Khalistan slogans raised on Bluestar anniversary in Punjab|url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/481914/pro-khalistan-slogans-raised-bluestar.html|date=6 June 2015|website=Deccan Herald|access-date=14 August 2015|archive-date=25 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150725013858/http://www.deccanherald.com/content/481914/pro-khalistan-slogans-raised-bluestar.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Pro-Khalistan signs were also raised during a function of [[List of chief ministers of Punjab, India|Punjabi Chief Minister]] [[Parkash Singh Badal]]. Two members of SAD-A, identified as Sarup Singh Sandha and Rajindr Singh Channa, raised pro-Khalistan and anti-Badal signs during the chief minister's speech.<ref>{{cite web|title=Pro-Khalistan slogans raised during Punjab CM Parkash Singh Badal's function|url=http://indianexpress.com/article/india/punjab-and-haryana/pro-khalistan-slogans-raised-during-punjab-cm-parkash-singh-badals-function/|date=26 July 2015|website=The Indian Express|access-date=14 August 2015|archive-date=29 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150829094227/http://indianexpress.com/article/india/punjab-and-haryana/pro-khalistan-slogans-raised-during-punjab-cm-parkash-singh-badals-function/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In retrospect, the Khalistan movement has failed to reach its objectives in India due to several reasons:
* Heavy Police crackdown on the separatists under the leadership of [[Punjab Police (India)|Punjab Police]] chief [[KPS Gill]].<ref name="HT_New2018" /> Several militant leaders were killed and others surrendered and rehabilitated.{{sfnp|Van Dyke, The Khalistan Movement|2009|p=990}}
* Gill credits the decline to change in the policies by adding provision for an adequate number of police and security forces to deal with the militancy. The clear political will from the government without any interference.{{sfnp|Van Dyke, The Khalistan Movement|2009|p=990}}
* Lack of a clear political concept of 'Khalistan' even to the extremist supporters. As per Kumar (1997), the name which was wishful thinking only represented their revulsion against the Indian establishment and did not find any alternative to it.<ref name="Kumar_book">{{citation|last=Kumar|first=Ram Narayan|title=The Sikh unrest and the Indian state: politics, personalities, and historical retrospective|year=1997|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WD9uAAAAMAAJ|publisher=Ajanta|isbn=978-81-202-0453-9}} quoted in [http://www.rediff.com/news/feb/22sikh.htm Rediff On the Net] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180815170823/http://www.rediff.com/news/feb/22sikh.htm |date=15 August 2018 }}</ref>
* In the later stages of the movement, militants lacked an ideological motivation.{{sfnp|Van Dyke, The Khalistan Movement|2009|p=990}}
* The entry of criminals and government loyalists into its ranks further divided the groups.{{sfnp|Van Dyke, The Khalistan Movement|2009|p=990}}
* Loss of sympathy and support from the Sikh population of Punjab.{{sfnp|Van Dyke, The Khalistan Movement|2009|p=990}}
* The divisions among the Sikhs also undermined this movement. According to Pettigrew non-[[Jat people|Jat]] urban Sikhs did not want to live in a country of "Jatistan."{{sfnp|Pettigrew, The Sikhs of the Punjab|1995|pp=188–197}}{{sfnp|Van Dyke, The Khalistan Movement|2009|p=992}} Further division was caused as the people in the region traditionally preferred police and military service as career options. The [[Punjab Police (India)|Punjab Police]] had a majority of [[Jat Sikh]]s and the conflict was referred as ''"Jat against Jat"'' by Police Chief Gill.{{sfnp|Van Dyke, The Khalistan Movement|2009|p=990}}
* Moderate factions of Akali Dal led by [[Parkash Singh Badal|Prakash Singh Badal]] reclaimed the political positions in the state through all three assembly (namely parliamentary) and [[Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee|SGPC]] elections. The dominance of traditional political parties was reasserted over the militant-associated factions.{{sfnp|Van Dyke, The Khalistan Movement|2009|p=991}}
* The increased vigilance by security forces in the region against rise of separatist elements.<ref name="HT_Period">{{cite news|date=19 March 2016|title=No chance of another Khalistan movement in Punjab: Defence experts|newspaper=Hindustan Times|agency=ANI|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/punjab/no-chance-of-another-khalistan-movement-in-punjab-defence-experts/story-o9MSyS8jNS79kQo9cNIGHP.html|access-date=5 May 2018|archive-date=6 May 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180506103911/https://www.hindustantimes.com/punjab/no-chance-of-another-khalistan-movement-in-punjab-defence-experts/story-o9MSyS8jNS79kQo9cNIGHP.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
* The confidence building measures adopted by the Sikh community helped in rooting out the Khalistan movement.<ref name="HT_Period" />

Simrat Dhillon (2007), writing for the Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies, noted that while a few groups continued to fight, "the movement has lost its popular support both in India and within the Diaspora community."<ref name="SikhDiaspora">{{cite web|title=The Sikh Diaspora and the Quest for Khalistan: A Search for Statehood or for Self-preservation?|url=http://www.ipcs.org/issue_briefs/issue_brief_pdf/1787132181IPCS-ResearchPaper12-SimratDhillon.pdf|last=Dhillon|first=Simrat|date=December 2007|publisher=Institute of Peace and Conflict Studies|access-date=26 May 2009|archive-date=17 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190817012224/http://www.ipcs.org/issue_briefs/issue_brief_pdf/1787132181IPCS-ResearchPaper12-SimratDhillon.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== 2020s ====
{{see also|Khalistan Referendum}}
In 2021, the secessionist group, [[Sikhs for Justice]] (SFJ), began an unofficial, non binding, ongoing "referendum" regarding the potential creation of a Khalistan state which would include the entire states of Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, and several districts of other Indian states. Numerous referendum votes have been held in various locations including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Italy, England, and the United States. Hundreds of thousands of Sikhs have partaken in these votes according to various news reports. 

During a Khalistan referendum vote held in [[Melbourne|Melbourne, Australia]] in January 2023 , two separate brawls broke out between Khalistan supporters and pro-India demonstrators, leading to two people being injured and two Sikh men being arrested. The [[Victoria Police|Victoria Police Department]] issued statements afterwards:“During the fight, flag poles were used by several men as weapons which caused physical injuries to multiple victims in which two victims were treated at the scene by paramedics” and “As a result of each incident a 34-year-old man and a 39-year-old man were arrested, and each issued with a penalty notice for riotous behaviour.” Australia's High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell condemned the incident.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Anand |first=Nisha |title=Australian police releases pics of 6 men involved in Khalistan referendum brawl |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/australian-police-releases-pics-of-6-men-involved-in-khalistan-referendum-brawl-101679310384539.html |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-01-30 |title=Brawl breaks out over Khalistan referendum in Australia; India raises concerns with authorities |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/brawl-khalistan-referendum-australia-india-8412876/ |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title='Appalled': Australian envoy on attack by Khalistan elements on pro-India groups |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/appalled-australian-envoy-on-attack-by-khalistan-elements-on-pro-india-groups-101675090248789.html |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref>

In February 2022, Deepak Punj, a Brampton radio host and a vocal critic of the Khalistan movement, was assaulted by three belligerent men who warned him "against speaking about [[Deep Sidhu]] and Khalistan". In a statement to ''The Globe and Mail,'' Punj claimed "one of them pulled a gun on me, and the other hit me on the head with a beer bottle". Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown condemned the attack, stating "no one in the media should face violence or intimidation." Peel Police subsequently launched an investigation.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-02-24 |title=Police investigating attack on Brampton radio host after remarks on Punjabi actor |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-police-investigating-attack-on-brampton-radio-host-after-remarks-on/ |access-date=2024-10-12 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA |quote=He told police he was approached near his Brampton studio Wednesday afternoon by three men who were shouting support for Mr. Sidhu, who was also a Sikh activist. “One of them pulled a gun on me, and the other hit me on the head with a beer bottle,” he told The Globe and Mail.}}</ref>

In August 2022, Amritpal Singh, a self styled radical{{refn|<ref>{{cite news |title='Bhindranwale 2.0': Radical Khalistan Sympathiser Amritpal Singh Active in Punjab |newspaper=NDTV News |url=https://www.ndtv.com/people/bhindranwale-2-0-radical-preacher-and-khalistan-sympathiser-amritpal-singh-very-active-in-punjab-3810442 |quote=Often escorted by armed supporters and donning a flowing white 'chola' and a navy-blue turban, radical preacher and Khalistan sympathiser Amritpal Singh has been very active for some time in Punjab. |access-date=24 February 2023 |archive-date=24 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230224152453/https://www.ndtv.com/people/bhindranwale-2-0-radical-preacher-and-khalistan-sympathiser-amritpal-singh-very-active-in-punjab-3810442 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Print Feb 2023">{{cite news |last=Sethi |first=Chitleen K. |date=2023-02-23 |title=Radical activist Amritpal storms Ajnala police station with supporters, secures aide's release |url=https://theprint.in/india/radical-activist-amritpal-storms-ajnala-police-station-with-supporters-secures-aides-release/1394086/ |newspaper=ThePrint |access-date=24 February 2023 |archive-date=24 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230224154325/https://theprint.in/india/radical-activist-amritpal-storms-ajnala-police-station-with-supporters-secures-aides-release/1394086/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Radical preacher Amritpal Singh issue: Habeas corpus petition moved in HC seeking his 'release' |newspaper=The Financial Express |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/radical-preacher-amritpal-singh-issue-habeas-corpus-petition-moved-in-hc-seeking-his-release/3015120/ |access-date=19 March 2023 |archive-date=19 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230319175249/https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/radical-preacher-amritpal-singh-issue-habeas-corpus-petition-moved-in-hc-seeking-his-release/3015120/ |url-status=live }}</ref>}} Indian preacher, came to prominence after being appointed as the head of [[Waris Punjab De]] (a Sikh political organization which lent support to pro-Khalistan figures and groups) immediately after Deep Sidhu's death (a succession described as illegitimate by the relatives and some associates of Sidhu).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Deep Sidhu disliked Amritpal Singh, blocked his phone |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/deep-sidhu-disliked-amritpal-blocked-his-phone-439160 |website=Tribune India |access-date=4 July 2023 |archive-date=10 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210053836/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/deep-sidhu-disliked-amritpal-blocked-his-phone-439160 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Matharu |first=Sonal |date=2022-10-25 |title=Fiery orator, 'Bhindranwale 2.0' – who's Amritpal Singh, new 'head' of Deep Sidhu's Waris Punjab De |url=https://theprint.in/india/fiery-orator-bhindranwale-2-0-whos-amritpal-singh-new-head-of-deep-sidhus-waris-punjab-de/1180939/ |access-date=2023-07-04 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US |archive-date=16 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221116122122/https://theprint.in/india/fiery-orator-bhindranwale-2-0-whos-amritpal-singh-new-head-of-deep-sidhus-waris-punjab-de/1180939/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The rise and fall of Amritpal Singh |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/the-rise-and-fall-of-fugitive-khalistan-sympathiser-amritpal-singh-489705 |website=Tribune India |access-date=4 July 2023 |archive-date=20 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230320223804/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/the-rise-and-fall-of-fugitive-khalistan-sympathiser-amritpal-singh-489705 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-24 |title=Unaware how Amritpal Singh declared himself head of 'Waris Punjab De', says Deep Sidhu's kin |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/unaware-how-amritpal-singh-declared-himself-head-of-waris-punjab-de-says-deep-sidhus-kin/2992029/ |access-date=2023-07-04 |website=Financialexpress |language=en |archive-date=19 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230319194109/https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/unaware-how-amritpal-singh-declared-himself-head-of-waris-punjab-de-says-deep-sidhus-kin/2992029/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He subsequently embarked on a campaign and numerous preaching tours advocating for the creation of Khalistan and for Sikhs to receive baptism, imbibe religious austerities, and to shun drugs and other vices.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Amritpal Singh: Amrit Sanchar to focus on 'de-addiction' of youth |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/amrit-sanchar-to-focus-on-de-addiction-of-youth-445952 |website=Tribune India |access-date=4 July 2023 |archive-date=16 November 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221116122120/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/punjab/amrit-sanchar-to-focus-on-de-addiction-of-youth-445952 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-24 |title='Khalistan shouldn't be seen as…': Amritpal Singh as Toofan to be freed today |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/khalistan-shouldn-t-be-seen-as-amritpal-singh-as-lovepreet-singh-set-to-be-released-today-101677225024364.html |access-date=2023-07-04 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=24 February 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230224155044/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/khalistan-shouldn-t-be-seen-as-amritpal-singh-as-lovepreet-singh-set-to-be-released-today-101677225024364.html |url-status=live }}</ref> He glorified the use of violence and weapons during public events.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-02-25 |title=Amritpal Singh {{!}} A radical preacher |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/amritpal-singh-a-radical-preacher/article66553973.ece |access-date=2023-07-04 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=31 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230331022923/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/amritpal-singh-a-radical-preacher/article66553973.ece |url-status=live }}</ref> On 18 March 2023, Indian authorities initiated a crackdown on Waris Punjab De, alleging the organization's involvement in attempted murder, attacks on police personnel, and spreading disharmony in Punjab.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mogul |first=Rhea |date=2023-03-22 |title=Khalistan: The outlawed Sikh separatist movement that has Indian authorities on edge |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/22/india/india-separatist-khalistan-movement-explainer-intl-hnk/index.html |access-date=2023-07-04 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=23 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323000018/https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/22/india/india-separatist-khalistan-movement-explainer-intl-hnk/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> An extensive manhunt for Singh ensued, who absconded and managed to evade police capture for 35 days. He was arrested on 23 April 2023.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-04-23 |title='Waris Punjab De' chief Amritpal Singh arrested from Punjab's Moga under NSA; shifted to Assam's Dibrugarh jail |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/amritpal-singh-waris-punjab-de-punjab-arrested/article66769442.ece |access-date=2023-07-04 |issn=0971-751X |archive-date=23 April 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230423073440/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/amritpal-singh-waris-punjab-de-punjab-arrested/article66769442.ece |url-status=live }}</ref>

Numerous protests, particularly among diaspora Sikhs, occurred in the aftermath of the Indian police's manhunt for Singh. While many transpired without incident, numerous violent attacks were reported in various locations. A mob of protesters attacked the Indian consulate in [[San Francisco]], another mob attacked the [[Indian High Commission in London|Indian High Commission]] office in [[London]] and attempted to pull down the [[Indian flag]] off a pole, broke windows, and inflicted minor injuries on security staff.<ref>{{cite news |date=20 March 2023 |title=Watch: Sikhs attack Indian consulate in San Francisco, raise Khalistani flag to protest against crackdown on Amritpal Singh |newspaper=Free Press Journal |url=https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/watch-sikhs-attack-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco-raise-khalistani-flag-to-protest-against-crackdown-on-amritpal-singh |url-status=live |access-date=21 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230321101735/https://www.freepressjournal.in/world/watch-sikhs-attack-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco-raise-khalistani-flag-to-protest-against-crackdown-on-amritpal-singh |archive-date=21 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |author1=Simon Little |author2=Julie Nolin |title=Journalist allegedly assaulted as Punjab tensions spill over into B.C. |newspaper=Global News |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9565072/surrey-protest-assault-punjab-crackdown/ |url-status=live |access-date=2023-03-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230321101735/https://globalnews.ca/news/9565072/surrey-protest-assault-punjab-crackdown/ |archive-date=21 March 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-03-20 |title=Indian High Commission: Diplomat summoned after London protest |language=en-GB |publisher=BBC News |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-65010388 |access-date=2023-06-25 |archive-date=25 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230625023001/https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-65010388 |url-status=live }}</ref> The [[National Investigation Agency|NIA]] claimed that a group of protesters in San Francisco were exhorted to kill all representatives of the Indian government.<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |date=2023-06-24 |title=Amritpal Singh's brother-in-law key accused in attack on Indian high commission in Canada |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/waris-punjab-de-chief-s-brother-in-law-named-primary-accused-in-attack-on-indian-high-commission-in-canada-101687549686353.html |access-date=2023-06-25 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=5 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230705072929/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/waris-punjab-de-chief-s-brother-in-law-named-primary-accused-in-attack-on-indian-high-commission-in-canada-101687549686353.html |url-status=live }}</ref> On 21 March 2023, two men poured flammable material in the entrance of the consulate and attempted to set the San Francisco consulate on fire.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Pro-Khalistan protesters tried to set on fire India's consulate in San Francisco |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/diaspora/pro-khalistan-protesters-attempted-to-set-on-fire-indias-consulate-in-san-francisco-490025 |website=The Tribune India |access-date=4 July 2023 |archive-date=25 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230625025651/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/diaspora/pro-khalistan-protesters-attempted-to-set-on-fire-indias-consulate-in-san-francisco-490025 |url-status=live }}</ref> In Washington, Khalistan supporters verbally intimidated and physically assaulted an Indian journalist covering the protests.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-26 |title=Senior Indian journalist attacked by pro-Khalistanis outside Indian Embassy in Washington |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/international/world-news-politics/senior-indian-journalist-attacked-by-pro-khalistanis-outside-indian-embassy-in-washington-1203621.html |access-date=2023-06-25 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en |archive-date=25 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230625021638/https://www.deccanherald.com/international/world-news-politics/senior-indian-journalist-attacked-by-pro-khalistanis-outside-indian-embassy-in-washington-1203621.html |url-status=live }}</ref> In a Surrey protest, Sameer Kaushal, a journalist, was allegedly assaulted and harassed by Khalistan supporters.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Journalist allegedly assaulted as Punjab tensions spill over into B.C. |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9565072/surrey-protest-assault-punjab-crackdown/ |access-date=2023-06-25 |website=Global News |language=en-US |archive-date=21 March 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230321101735/https://globalnews.ca/news/9565072/surrey-protest-assault-punjab-crackdown/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In the aftermath of the Surrey protest, Surrey RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Vanessa Munn confirmed police were investigating alleged assault involving a different victim and that the RCMP was seeking witnesses and video evidence. She stated “There is an assault investigation into the assault of one person who was in the crowd and did appear to be swarmed and assaulted by multiple people”.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Journalist allegedly assaulted as Punjab tensions spill over into B.C. |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/9565072/surrey-protest-assault-punjab-crackdown/ |access-date=2024-10-12 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref> The Indian Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu was threatened with [[assassination]] by Khalistanis.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-26 |title='Mr Taranjit Singh Sandhu…': Khalistan supporter threatens Indian envoy to US {{!}} Watch |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/mr-taranjit-singh-sandhu-khalistan-supporters-threaten-indian-envoy-to-us-watch-101679805410645.html |access-date=2023-06-25 |website=Hindustan Times |language=en |archive-date=27 June 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230627184325/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/mr-taranjit-singh-sandhu-khalistan-supporters-threaten-indian-envoy-to-us-watch-101679805410645.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

On 18 June 2023, [[Hardeep Singh Nijjar]] was shot dead in the parking lot of a Sikh temple in [[Surrey, British Columbia]]. Nijjar was allegedly the head of two pro-Khalistan organisations in Canada, and had been accused by the [[Government of India|Indian Government]] of orchestrating targeted killings in India, for which it unsuccessfully sought his extradition.<ref>{{cite news|author=Anirudh Bhattacharyya|title=Canadian police frees Khalistani 'separatist' Hardeep Nijjar after 24 hours in custody|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/nijjar-accused-by-india-of-being-khalistani-terrorist-briefly-taken-into-custody-by-canada/story-Tdi9QZxxyDKuBlcjjc6ZXN.html|publisher=Hindustan Times|date=April 27, 2018|access-date=19 September 2023|archive-date=21 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230921182446/https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/nijjar-accused-by-india-of-being-khalistani-terrorist-briefly-taken-into-custody-by-canada/story-Tdi9QZxxyDKuBlcjjc6ZXN.html|url-status=live}}</ref> 

On 2 July 2023, Khalistani supporters set the Indian consulate in San Francisco on fire.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-07-04 |title=2nd attack since March: Indian consulate set on fire in San Francisco; US condemns violence |work=The Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/2nd-attack-since-march-indian-consulate-set-on-fire-in-san-francisco-us-condemns-violence/articleshow/101471463.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2023-07-04 |issn=0971-8257 |archive-date=4 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230704205012/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/2nd-attack-since-march-indian-consulate-set-on-fire-in-san-francisco-us-condemns-violence/articleshow/101471463.cms?from=mdr |url-status=live }}</ref> The arson attempt was promptly suppressed by the San Francisco Fire Department, resulting in limited damage to the building and no injuries to the staffers present.<ref name="Tribune India July 2023">{{Cite web |title=US condemns vandalism, attempted arson against Indian Consulate in San Francisco |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/diaspora/us-condemns-vandalism-attempted-arson-against-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco-522658 |website=Tribune India |access-date=4 July 2023 |archive-date=4 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230704213518/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/diaspora/us-condemns-vandalism-attempted-arson-against-indian-consulate-in-san-francisco-522658 |url-status=live }}</ref> The incident was condemned by the State Department's spokesman Matthew Miller.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-07-04 |title=US condemns vandalism at Indian consulate in San Francisco |language=en |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/us-condemns-vandalism-indian-consulate-san-francisco-2023-07-04/ |access-date=2023-07-04 |archive-date=4 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230704205012/https://www.reuters.com/world/us-condemns-vandalism-indian-consulate-san-francisco-2023-07-04/ |url-status=live }}</ref> A video of the incident was released on Twitter by Khalistani supporters, suggesting the attack was retaliation for the recent death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.<ref name="Tribune India July 2023" /> Nijjar's death sparked protests among sections of the Sikh diaspora; posters promoting these events alleged that Indian diplomats played a role in the death. The posters were condemned by Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly who assured the safety of Indian diplomats and buildings.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-07-09 |title='Heated' demonstration at Indian consulate in Toronto sees one arrested |language=en-CA |work=The Globe and Mail |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-sikh-protests-toronto-vancouver/ |access-date=2023-07-14 |quote=Some online posters ahead of the event said "Kill India" and suggested, without evidence, that Indian diplomats played a role in Mr. Nijjar’s death. |archive-date=14 July 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230714010058/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-sikh-protests-toronto-vancouver/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 

According to a ''Globe and Mail'' report published one year after Nijjar's death, some Canadian security officials did not believe there was sufficient evidence to arrest Nijjar, and accused Indian intelligence officials of "having a reputation for torqueing evidence to fit with political objectives". However, the report also stated that interviews with Nijjar's associates and his own disclosures, revealed that "he was steeped in Sikh extremism", made speeches calling for violence against Indian adversaries, had relations with the architects of the 1995 assassination of Punjab's chief minister [[Beant Singh (politician)|Beant Singh]], was photographed in Pakistan with an AK-47 and had a close relationship with Jagtar Singh Tara — head of the [[Babbar Khalsa International]] and other militant outfits, had "underworld associates" and relations with members of the [[Khalistan Tiger Force]], and led several men in weapons, GPS, and target practice in Lower Mainland BC.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-06-22 |title=A year after Hardeep Singh Nijjar's death, mysteries remain about how he really lived |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-a-year-after-hardeep-singh-nijjars-death-mysteries-remain-about-how-he/ |access-date=2024-10-12 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA}}</ref> 

On 1 September 2024, the organization, [[Sikhs for Justice]], held a rally in Toronto. Floats within the parade glorified [[Dilawar Singh Babbar]], a suicide bomber affiliated with [[Babbar Khalsa International]] (a banned organization in Canada), who killed former Punjab chief minister [[Beant Singh (politician)|Beant Singh]] and numerous other bystanders. A sign at the rally read "Beanta Bombed to Death". SFJ described Babbar as a "human bomb". SFJ's general counsel in a statement said:"We are all offspring of Dilawar. At that time in 1995, the choice of weapon was a bomb, but we have choice of ballot today.” Some attendees chanted "Kill India" at the rally.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-02 |title=Pro-Khalistani Group in Toronto Glorifies Beant Singh's Killer, Indian Authorities to Raise Issue With Canada {{!}} EXCLUSIVE |url=https://www.news18.com/world/pro-khalistani-group-in-toronto-glorifies-beant-singhs-killer-indian-authorities-to-raise-issue-with-canada-exclusive-9035805.html |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-09-01 |title=Canada: Pro-Khalistan rallies feature floats celebrating 1995 Beant Singh bombing |url=https://www.businesstoday.in/world/canada/story/canada-pro-khalistan-rallies-feature-floats-celebrating-1995-beant-singh-bombing-443897-2024-09-01?onetap=true |access-date=2024-10-13 |website=Business Today |language=en}}</ref>

In October 2024, Rishi Nagar, a Canadian radio host of ''Calgary Red FM'', reported on an incident at Gurdwara Dashmesh Culture Centre, a Sikh temple in Calgary, in which two men were arrested on various firearms related charges, including unauthorized possession of a firearm and pointing a firearm; multiple guns were seized by the police at the site. Following the report, Nagar was assaulted by two men. The attack left Nagar with severe injuries to his eye. Nagar attributed the assault to Khalistani elements stating “The pro-Khalistan people attacked me” {{fact|date=February 2025}}. Calgary Police's Staff Sergeant John Guigon described the assault as “particularly troubling to us when a member of the media gets attacked in a democracy”.{{refn|<ref>{{Cite web |title='I will not be silenced': Calgary radio host attack caught on CCTV |url=https://globalnews.ca/news/10789526/calgary-radio-host-attack-cctv-red-fm-rishi-nagar/ |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Calgary radio host speaks out after being attacked outside banquet hall |url=https://globalnews.ca/video/10789528/calgary-radio-host-speaks-out-after-being-attacked-outside-banquet-hall/ |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=Global News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Indo-Canadian mediaperson, attacked by two persons, blames 'pro-Khalistan' elements |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/indocanadian-mediaperson-attacked-by-two-persons-blames-pro-khalistan-elements-101727784955199.html |work=Hindustan Times}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-10-01 |title=Calgary police investigating weekend assault of radio host |url=https://calgary.ctvnews.ca/calgary-police-investigating-weekend-assault-of-radio-host-1.7058356 |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=CTV News Calgary |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Radio journalist says he was assaulted in attack over news coverage |url=https://www.msn.com/en-ca/news/canada/police-investigate-allegedly-politically-motivated-assault-on-radio-journalist/ar-AA1rxplx |work=Calgary Herald |quote=City police are seeking two suspects in an assault on a well-known radio journalist in Calgary’s northeast that apparently targeted his reporting on crime issues within the Sikh community.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Calgary police probe assault of RED FM news director |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/calgary/police-investigate-assault-on-radio-host-1.7338352 |work=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation |quote=Staff Sgt. John Guigon said Nagar was struck in the head but was not seriously hurt, and that the incident was captured on video. "It was not a pleasant situation," he said."[It is] particularly troubling to us when a member of the media gets attacked in a democracy.... We're throwing resources at it."}}</ref>}}<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Abhinav |date=2024-10-03 |title=Canadian radio journalist Rishi Nagar attacked by Khalistani groups in Canada |url=https://diyatvusa.com/canadian-radio-journalist-rishi-nagar-attacked-by-khalistani-groups-in-canada/ |access-date=2024-10-04 |website=Diya TV |language=en-US |quote=A group of men supportive of the Khalistan separatist movement violently assaulted Canada-based RED FM News Director Rishi Nagar allegedly for refusing to align with their agenda.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Moharib |first=Nadia |date=2024-09-30 |title=Man threatened outside NE temple, two arrested: Calgary police |url=https://calgary.citynews.ca/2024/09/30/calgary-sikh-temple-firearms-incident/ |access-date=2024-10-11 |website=CityNews Calgary |language=en}}</ref> ''Calgary Red FM'' stated that Nagar "faced some blowback for his opposition to the Khalistan movement".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bradley |first=Jonathan |date=2024-10-01 |title=RED FM Calgary host says attack will not stop his journalism |url=https://www.westernstandard.news/alberta/red-fm-calgary-host-says-attack-will-not-stop-his-journalism/58314 |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=Western Standard |language=en}}</ref> Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and Alberta premier Danielle Smith condemned the attack.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bradley |first=Jonathan |date=2024-10-02 |title=UPDATED: Poilievre, Smith say they are disturbed by attack on RED FM Calgary host |url=https://www.westernstandard.news/alberta/poilievre-says-he-is-disturbed-by-attack-on-red-fm-calgary-host/58342 |access-date=2024-10-02 |website=Western Standard |language=en}}</ref>

Chandra Arya, a Canadian Liberal MP, denounced attacks on journalists perpetrated by Khalistan supporters. In the House of Commons, he criticized the attacks on Nagar, Punj, and Kaushal. Arya further stated “I call on law enforcement agencies to take notice of Khalistani extremism with all seriousness it deserves.” Mocha Bezirgan, a journalist, has also received death threats for his coverage on Khalistani extremism.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Journalists reporting against Khalistan groups under attack in Canada, says Indian-origin MP |url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/diaspora/journalists-reporting-against-khalistan-groups-under-attack-in-canada-says-indian-origin-mp/ |access-date=2024-10-12 |website=The Tribune |language=en}}</ref>

In November 2024, Khalistani demonstrators attacked people outside the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton with flag poles and sticks. In a video circulated in social media, individuals holding pro-Khalistan flags were seen running into the temple property and striking people within their vicinity.<ref>{{Cite web |last=O’Brien |first=Raju Mudhar, Abby |date=2024-11-09 |title=‘This is not a Hindu and Sikh battle’: The complex history behind protests that erupted at Brampton temples this week over Indian consular visits |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/this-is-not-a-hindu-and-sikh-battle-the-complex-history-behind-protests-that-erupted/article_8a786650-9dfd-11ef-a451-1fda9f2db36f.html |access-date=2024-11-10 |website=Toronto Star |language=en |quote=In another video, individuals holding pro-Khalistan flagpoles can be seen running onto the property, striking those inside the perimeter with them. A chaotic scene ensues.}}</ref> Justin Trudeau, Pierre Poilievre, and Jagmeet Singh, along with other Canadian politicians, condemned the incident.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Aguilar |first=Bryann |date=2024-11-03 |title=Police increase their presence at Hindu temple in Brampton after protest |url=https://www.cp24.com/local/peel/2024/11/03/peel-police-investigating-incident-during-protest-at-hindu-temple-in-brampton/ |access-date=2024-11-03 |website=CP24 |language=en}}</ref> As a result of the violence, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown announced he that he intended to introduce a motion at city council to prohibit protests outside places of worship in Brampton.<ref>{{Cite web |last=ICI.Radio-Canada.ca |first=Zone Justice et faits divers- |date=2024-11-04 |title=3 arrested and charged after protest at Brampton Hindu temple, police say |url=https://ici.radio-canada.ca/rci/en/news/2117369/3-arrested-and-charged-after-protest-at-brampton-hindu-temple-police-say |access-date=2024-11-04 |website=Radio-Canada.ca |language=fr-ca}}</ref> An off duty Peel Police sergeant Harinder Sohi was suspended from duty for participating in the protest. Sohi was filmed holding a Khalistan flag outside the temple.<ref>{{Cite web |last=O’Brien |first=Raju Mudhar, Abby |date=2024-11-09 |title=‘This is not a Hindu and Sikh battle’: The complex history behind protests that erupted at Brampton temples this week over Indian consular visits |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/this-is-not-a-hindu-and-sikh-battle-the-complex-history-behind-protests-that-erupted/article_8a786650-9dfd-11ef-a451-1fda9f2db36f.html |access-date=2024-11-10 |website=Toronto Star |language=en |quote=The clash saw three people arrested and an off-duty police officer who participated in the protest, Sergeant Harinder Sohi, suspended.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |title=Peel cop suspended after participating in protest outside Hindu temple |url=https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/peel-officer-suspended-hindu-temple-protest-1.7372954 |work=Canadian Broadcasting Corporation}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Who Is The Suspended Cop Harinder Sohi And What Happened At The Pro-Khalistan Protest? |url=https://thedailyguardian.com/who-is-the-suspended-cop-harinder-sohi-and-what-happened-at-the-pro-khalistan-protest/ |access-date=2024-11-04 |website=TheDailyGuardian |language=en}}</ref> In another social media post, a police officer was seen charging at a temple-goer and punching him, seemingly without provocation. The ''Toronto Star'' reached out to Peel Police who claimed they were aware of the video and "looking into it".<ref>{{Cite web |last=O’Brien |first=Raju Mudhar, Abby |date=2024-11-09 |title=‘This is not a Hindu and Sikh battle’: The complex history behind protests that erupted at Brampton temples this week over Indian consular visits |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/this-is-not-a-hindu-and-sikh-battle-the-complex-history-behind-protests-that-erupted/article_8a786650-9dfd-11ef-a451-1fda9f2db36f.html |access-date=2024-11-10 |website=Toronto Star |language=en |quote=The video then appears to show one of the officers breaking away from his colleagues, running onto temple property, and repeatedly striking an individual. When reached for comment, Peel police said it was aware of the video and was looking into it.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-11-04 |title=Video: Canadian cop punches Hindu man protesting against pro-Khalistan mob attack |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/canada-brampton-temple-attack-peel-police-assault-hindu-community-indians-khalistan-mob-viral-video-2627588-2024-11-04 |access-date=2024-11-04 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>  Prior to the melee at the temple, the Indian consulate announced a visit to the temple to assist elderly members of the Indian diaspora with their pensions and to them issue life certificates.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-11-08 |title=Fears of more clashes between Sikhs and Hindus in Brampton, Ont., as Canada-India rift spills over into suburbs |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-tensions-in-brampton-boil-over-with-violent-protests-clashes/ |access-date=2024-11-10 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA |quote=The Khalistani protesters claimed the event at the Hindu temple Sunday – where Indian consular staff were helping Indian immigrants apply for government pensions – was part of surveillance efforts to keep tabs on pro-Khalistan Sikhs.}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=O’Brien |first=Raju Mudhar, Abby |date=2024-11-09 |title=‘This is not a Hindu and Sikh battle’: The complex history behind protests that erupted at Brampton temples this week over Indian consular visits |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/this-is-not-a-hindu-and-sikh-battle-the-complex-history-behind-protests-that-erupted/article_8a786650-9dfd-11ef-a451-1fda9f2db36f.html |access-date=2024-11-10 |website=Toronto Star |language=en |quote=It was the presence of Indian Consular officials, who have been visiting communities to help older people in the diaspora who may be entitled to pensions, that prompted SFJ to plan Sunday’s demonstration.}}</ref> Most beneficiaries of the consular service were Sikh diaspora members.<ref>{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2024-11-04 |title=Violent clashes erupt outside consular camp at Hindu temple in Canada’s Brampton |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/violent-clashes-erupt-outside-consular-camp-at-hindu-temple-in-canadas-brampton/article68827909.ece |access-date=2024-11-10 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X |quote=Most beneficiaries of the consular service organised by the Indian High Commission in Brampton were Sikh members of the Indian diaspora.}}</ref> [[Sikhs for Justice]] subsequently began a protest, alleging the Indian consulate intended to spy on Sikhs and collect intelligence on the separatist movement.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-11-08 |title=Fears of more clashes between Sikhs and Hindus in Brampton, Ont., as Canada-India rift spills over into suburbs |url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-tensions-in-brampton-boil-over-with-violent-protests-clashes/ |access-date=2024-11-10 |work=The Globe and Mail |language=en-CA}}</ref> Inderjeet Singh Gosal, Sikhs for Justice Khalistan Referendum co-ordinator for Canada, who organized the protest stated: "This is not a Hindu and Sikh battle. This is strictly Sikhs versus the Indian government [...] Any place they (consular officials) go, we’ve been protesting there."<ref>{{Cite web |last=O’Brien |first=Raju Mudhar, Abby |date=2024-11-09 |title=‘This is not a Hindu and Sikh battle’: The complex history behind protests that erupted at Brampton temples this week over Indian consular visits |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/this-is-not-a-hindu-and-sikh-battle-the-complex-history-behind-protests-that-erupted/article_8a786650-9dfd-11ef-a451-1fda9f2db36f.html |access-date=2024-11-10 |website=Toronto Star |language=en}}</ref> Gosal was arrested on 8 November 2024 and charged with assault with a weapon.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Lavoie |first=Joanna |date=2024-11-09 |title=Another person charged following violent demonstrations in Peel Region |url=https://www.cp24.com/local/peel/2024/11/09/another-person-charged-following-violent-demonstrations-in-peel-region/ |access-date=2024-11-10 |website=CP24 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/29/india/clashes-hindu-sikh-canada-india-intl-hnk/index.html|title=Clashes erupted outside a Hindu temple near Toronto. They’re the latest sign of Canada and India’s spiraling relations|publisher=CNN}}</ref> 

===== Electoral performance of pro-Khalistan parties and candidates =====
{{see also|2022 Punjab Legislative Assembly election|Sangrur Lok Sabha constituency|2024 Indian general election in Punjab}}
In the [[2022 Punjab Legislative Assembly election]], the [[Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar)]], a splinter group of the [[Shiromani Akali Dal]], and the only pro Khalistan party in India,<ref name="Only pro">{{Cite web |date=2022-01-22 |title=Not one of its leaders elected since 1999, SAD (Amritsar) still contests polls demanding Khalistan |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chandigarh/not-one-of-its-leaders-elected-since-1999-sad-amritsar-still-contests-polls-demanding-khalistan-7736135/ |access-date=2024-10-12 |website=The Indian Express |language=en |quote=Headed by former MP Simranjit Singh Mann, a retired IPS officer, SAD (Amritsar) is the only party which still contests the elections in Punjab with demand for a separate Khalistan.}}</ref> contested 81 out of the 117 seats in the Punjab Legislative Assembly and received 386,176 votes or 2.48% of the vote share. SAD(A) received 49,260 votes (0.3% of the vote share) in the [[2017 Punjab Legislative Assembly election|2017 Legislative Assembly election]]. 

Simranjit Singh Mann, head of the SAD(A), won the Sangrur [[Lok Sabha]] [[Sangrur Lok Sabha constituency|by-election]] held in June 2022, receiving 253,154 votes in the constituency or 35.61% of the vote share. However, Mann went on to lose the [[Sangrur Lok Sabha constituency|2024 Sangrur Lok Sabha election]], receiving 187,246 votes or 18.55% of the vote share.

In the [[2024 Indian general election in Punjab]], thirteen parliamentary constituencies were contested. Two MP candidates associated with the Khalistan movement, Amritpal Singh and Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa,<ref name="PKS">{{Cite news |last=Takkar |first=Jatin |date=2024-06-04 |title=Pro-Khalistan separatists Amritpal and Sarabjeet lead over rivals |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/india/pro-khalistan-separatists-amritpal-and-sarabjeet-lead-over-rivals/articleshow/110696255.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-10-12 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> won in their respective constituencies and were subsequently elected as Indian Members of Parliament.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sethi |first=Chitleen K. |date=2024-06-05 |title=Amritpal, Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa — Sikh radicals' poll victories pose challenge for Mann govt |url=https://theprint.in/politics/amritpal-sarabjeet-singh-khalsa-sikh-radicals-poll-victories-pose-challenge-for-mann-govt/2117825/ |access-date=2024-10-12 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US |quote=Amritpal Singh won from Khadoor Sahib by biggest margin this election in Punjab & Beant Singh's son Khalsa won in Faridkot. But, Simranjit Singh Mann lost his Sangrur seat.}}</ref> SAD(A) ran candidates in 12 out of 13 constituencies, but did not win any race. They received over 500,000 votes in the election. 
{| class="wikitable"
|+Electoral performance of pro Khalistan candidates/parties in the 2024 Indian general election in Punjab 
!Candidate/Party
!Affiliation
!Constituency
!Won/Lost
!Votes
!%
!Notes
|-
|Amritpal Singh
|Independent
|Khadoor Sahib
|Won
|404,430<ref name="ECI2024">{{Cite web |title=General Election to Parliamentary Constituencies: Trends & Results June-2024 |url=https://results.eci.gov.in/PcResultGenJune2024/partywiseresult-S19.htm |website=Election Commission of India}}</ref>
|38.62
|Incarcerated pro-Khalistan activist.<ref name="PKS"/>
|-
|Sarabjeet Singh Khalsa
|Independent
|Faridkot
|Won
|298,062<ref name="ECI2024"/>
|29.38
|Son of the [[Beant Singh (assassin)|assassin]] of former Prime Minister [[Indira Gandhi]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2024-06-06 |title=Father didn't care and laid down his life, Sikh community pulled family through troubled times: Sarabjit Singh Khalsa |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/elections/lok-sabha/father-didnt-care-and-laid-down-his-life-sikh-community-pulled-family-through-troubled-times-sarabjit-singh-khalsa/articleshow/110768223.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-10-12 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389 |quote=Six-year-old Sarabjit when his father Beant Singh, a Delhi police SI who was part of the PM’s security detail, along with another of her bodyguards, Satwant Singh, assassinated Indira Gandhi in October 1984.}}</ref>
|-
| colspan="2" |Shiromani Akali Dal (Amritsar)
|Contested 12 out of the 13 parliamentary constituencies 
|Lost in all 12 constituencies
|517,024<ref name="ECI2024"/>
|~3.82% of total vote share
|Only pro-Khalistan party in India.<ref name="Only pro"/>
|-
|
|
|
|'''Total vote count of pro-Khalistan candidates'''
|'''1,219,516'''
|
|
|-
|
|
|
|'''Total votes in general election'''
|'''~13,530,000'''
|
|
|-
|
|
|
|'''% of vote'''
|'''~9%'''
|
|
|}