Pannun Unveils Proposed Khalistan Map After Indianapolis Vote
Sikhs for Justice has named Shimla as the proposed capital of what it calls the “Democratic Republic of Khalistan” following an unofficial Khalistan referendum held in Indianapolis, Indiana.
The voting event took place on August 16, 2026, as part of SFJ’s continuing international campaign seeking support for a separate Sikh state. SFJ’s own referendum website confirms that Indianapolis was selected as a voting centre for that date.
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, general counsel of SFJ, addressed participants through video link.
During his address, Pannun announced Shimla as the proposed capital of Khalistan and presented a map showing territory claimed by the separatist campaign.
The referendum remains an unofficial and non-governmental exercise. Its results have no legally binding effect on India or any other government.
SFJ has organised similar referendum events in several countries as part of its campaign for an independent Sikh state.
The organisation remains banned in India. India’s Ministry of Home Affairs extended its designation of SFJ as an unlawful association in July 2024.
Pannun Levels Serious Allegations Against Indian Government
During the Indiana event, Pannun accused the Indian government of committing genocide against Sikhs.
He also alleged that New Delhi was pursuing what he described as a “three-front war” against Punjab.
These claims were made by Pannun and SFJ and have not been independently established by the referendum itself.
Pannun also argued that Sikhs have a right to protect their religion and families.
He raised concerns about drug use among young people in Punjab and claimed that agricultural debt and economic difficulties were contributing to suicides among farmers.
These comments formed part of SFJ’s wider political argument in support of its separatist campaign.
Pannun also referred to prominent figures associated with the Khalistan movement during his address.
The Indiana vote comes amid continuing political and diplomatic controversy surrounding Sikh separatism.
India strongly opposes the Khalistan movement and considers efforts to separate Punjab from the country a threat to its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
SFJ, meanwhile, presents its referendum campaign as an effort to demonstrate support among sections of the Sikh diaspora for an independent state.
The competing positions have made overseas Khalistan events a sensitive issue in India’s relations with countries where such gatherings take place.
SFJ Announces Next Referendum Event in Alberta
SFJ has indicated that the next stage of its referendum campaign is planned for October 18, 2026, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
That planned event would continue a series of unofficial votes previously organised by the group in the United States, Canada and other countries.
The October 18 SFJ event should not be confused with Alberta’s separate official provincial referendum process.
The Khalistan referendum campaign is independently organised and does not constitute an official vote authorised by the Indian government.
The Indianapolis event therefore represents another symbolic stage in SFJ’s campaign rather than a legally recognised referendum on the territorial status of Punjab.
The announcement naming Shimla as a proposed capital is also a political proposal made by SFJ and does not change the legal or administrative status of Shimla.
For now, SFJ is expected to continue its overseas referendum campaign, while India maintains its opposition to the organisation and the proposed creation of Khalistan.
