Sikh Community
On India’s Independence Day, the Sikh community held global protests to voice their demand for rights and justice, marking the day as a “Black Day” in their communities worldwide.
For Sikhs, this day symbolizes a time of resistance rather than celebration, reflecting deep-rooted grievances against the Indian state.
Protests erupted in various cities across the globe, where members of the Sikh community gathered under the Khalistan flag, a symbol of their demand for a separate Sikh state.
These protests were marked by the chanting of pro-Khalistan slogans and raising of Khalistan flags, particularly in front of Indian embassies in countries like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia.
The demonstrators were vocal in their opposition to the current Indian government, specifically targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his administration.
The slogans echoed sentiments of resistance against what the protesters described as years of oppression and discrimination faced by Sikhs and other minority groups in India.
The protesters accused the Indian government of persecuting minorities, with policies that they believe infringe upon their rights, freedom, and dignity.
One of the core issues raised by the protesters was the alleged restriction on land and resources faced by Sikh farmers and other minority communities, particularly under the Modi administration.
These concerns have been amplified in recent years, especially in the context of the 2020–2021 farmers’ protests in India, where a significant portion of the protesters were Sikh farmers from Punjab.
They argued that the new agricultural laws imposed by the government were designed to benefit large corporations at the expense of small farmers, threatening their livelihood and exacerbating economic disparities.
The protests on India’s Independence Day are not just a call for Khalistan but also a broader plea for the recognition of Sikh identity and the protection of minority rights in India.
The demonstrators expressed frustration over what they perceive as the Indian government’s failure to address these issues, instead resorting to policies that they claim marginalize and oppress minority communities.
In addition to highlighting the struggles faced by Sikhs in India, the protests also brought attention to the broader issue of human rights in the country.
The demonstrators called for international awareness and intervention, urging global leaders and organizations to take a stand against the alleged injustices perpetrated by the Indian government.
For the Sikh community, these protests serve as a reminder of their ongoing struggle for justice, equality, and recognition.
As they continue to mark India’s Independence Day as a “Black Day,” their movement reflects a deep-seated desire for a future where their rights and identity are fully respected and protected.
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