Tensions has been escalating between India and Canada over allegations related to the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Khalistan Movement :
The Khalistan movement aims to establish a separate, sovereign Sikh state in present-day Punjab (India and Pakistan). It peaked in the 1980s, largely suppressed through operations like Blue Star (1984) and Black Thunder (1986, 1988), but retains support, particularly among the Sikh diaspora in Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Origin: The Khalistan Movement began as a demand for a separate Sikh state, called Khalistan (meaning “Land of the Pure”), for Sikhs in India.
- Originated in the 1940s but gained momentum in the 1970s and 1980s, especially in Punjab, a northern state in India with a majority Sikh population.
- The movement was influenced by historical grievances, religious identity, and political marginalization felt by some Sikhs.
Timeline:
- Partition (1947):
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- Originates from the division of Punjab during India’s Partition, causing communal violence and migration. Historic Sikh sites, including Nankana Sahib, became part of Pakistan.
- Punjabi Suba Movement (1966):
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- Demand for a Punjabi-speaking state led to Punjab’s reorganization into Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh.
- Anandpur Sahib Resolution (1973):
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- Akali Dal’s demands for Punjab’s autonomy sparked concerns of secession.
- Rise of Bhindranwale:
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- Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale emerged as a key figure, advocating for Sikh rights, leading the Dharam Yudh Morcha (1982).
- Operation Blue Star (1984):
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- Bhindranwale and armed supporters were eliminated from the Golden Temple, igniting global Sikh outrage and a stronger call for
- Aftermath (1984-1995):
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- Indira Gandhi’s assassination led to anti-Sikh riots, followed by Air India Flight 182 bombing. Punjab faced prolonged insurgency until 1995, with the demand for Khalistan losing mass support.
Current Status of the Khalistan Movement:
- Peace in Punjab: Punjab has remained largely peaceful, with minimal active support for the Khalistan cause within India.
- Diaspora-Driven:
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- The movement’s core support is found among segments of the Sikh diaspora, especially in countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia.
- Historical Grievances: Memories of the 1980s, particularly Operation Blue Star and the Golden Temple’s desecration, still fuel resentment among some Sikhs abroad.
- Generational Impact: The newer generation of Sikhs overseas continues to identify with Bhindranwale as a martyr, but this hasn’t resulted in significant political backing for Khalistan.
- Political Influence: A small but vocal minority keeps the issue alive, more for political leverage with various parties rather than for mobilizing mass support.
While active support for Khalistan remains minimal in India, the movement finds resonance among segments of the Sikh diaspora, particularly in Canada. Addressing historical grievances and fostering dialogue may help ease current tensions and prevent further escalation.
