Khalistan Movement Grows in Australia, Sparking Concerns
New Delhi, Dec 27 — Recent reports from intelligence agencies reveal a significant rise in the Khalistan movement’s activities in Australia, while efforts to address this issue have been seen in Canada and the United Kingdom.
Security officials note that while Khalistani activities in Canada and the UK are slowing, Australia has become a new focal point, with incidents of violence and vandalism increasing sharply in recent months. There have been several instances where Khalistani supporters resorted to vandalism, expressing anti-India sentiments through graffiti and other forms of protests.
Australia has previously hosted referendums related to the Khalistan movement, but this year has seen a notable escalation in such events. The group known as Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has ramped up its campaigns, with social media urging supporters to engage in acts against community members of Indian origin. Officials observe that this shift in focus to Australia appears intentional.
In response, India has engaged with Canada and the UK, highlighting the dangers of Khalistani activities. Both nations have recognized the issue, agreeing to collaborate with India to mitigate these concerns. Despite some action taken against Khalistani supporters in Canada and the UK, attention has turned to Australia, allowing the movement to expand there.
Since July, August, and December of this year, the activities related to Khalistan have become increasingly visible in Australia. Demonstrators have been seen waving Khalistan flags and chanting slogans against India. These protests have outraged many in the Indian community, as some demonstrators have desecrated the Indian flag, with videos of such actions widely circulated online by the SFJ.
Counter-protests from the Indian diaspora have also emerged. Indian community members have responded with chants of solidarity, as Khalistani slogans are met with cries of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai.” These protests often aim to provoke reactions, with quick interventions from the Australian police helping to prevent clashes.
Earlier this year in July, there was vandalism at a Gurdwara in Melbourne, where anti-India messages were spray-painted, alongside images that drew inappropriate comparisons between Indian leaders and historical figures like Hitler.
Australia’s large Indian population, which numbers about 800,000, has become a target for these activities. Many locals may wrongly associate all Indians with the actions of the Khalistan supporters, adding to the tension.
Currently, the Khalistan movement has exploited Australia’s commitment to free speech to conduct protests and promote hate speech without consequences. Officials stress the need for the Australian government to take a firm stance against such actions before the situation escalates further.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized, “We uphold free expression but draw firm lines at violence or incitement, and we continue to engage with Indian counterparts on these matters.”
With rising tensions and ongoing protests, both governments face a delicate balancing act to ensure safety and harmony within their communities.
