Sikh Community to Hold Khalistan Referendum in Washington on August 17

On August 17, 2025, Washington D.C. will host a highly significant yet unofficial referendum organized by the Sikh diaspora under the banner of “Sikhs for Justice” (SFJ). The referendum will allow thousands of Sikhs across the United States to peacefully express their stance on the demand for an independent Khalistan, a homeland for Sikhs. According to organizers, the event will be entirely democratic, lawful, and conducted in a peaceful manner, aligning with the universal right to self-determination.

SFJ, which has been banned by India, has been conducting similar referendums across various countries since 2021. Supporters argue that this global campaign is a non-violent way of amplifying the collective voice of nearly 30 million Sikhs worldwide. American authorities have permitted the event and emphasized that U.S. citizens have a constitutional right to freedom of speech and peaceful assembly.

Ahead of the referendum, large demonstrations took place outside the Indian Embassy in Washington, where thousands of protesters raised slogans against Indian government policies, with some even burning the Indian flag. Sikh leaders used the moment to praise U.S. President Donald Trump, who, according to SFJ officials, assured Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the group’s legal advisor, through a written message that American citizens participating in the referendum would be fully protected. They further claimed that Trump reiterated his administration’s commitment to safeguard democratic freedoms.

India, however, has strongly condemned the event, calling it a separatist activity and equating it with terrorism. New Delhi has consistently accused SFJ of attempting to divide India and destabilize Punjab. Despite India’s objections, the referendum in Washington is expected to proceed with large-scale participation, reflecting the determination of the Sikh diaspora to internationalize their cause.

As the world watches, this referendum is likely to spark further debate on self-determination, diaspora politics, and U.S.-India relations. While supporters see it as a democratic right, critics warn of the potential for heightened tensions between New Delhi and Washington. The outcome of this event may not carry legal weight, but it undeniably adds momentum to the Khalistan movement and places it firmly on the global stage.