Thousands of Sikh residents in San Francisco, United States voted yesterday on a referendum that is aimed at creating an independent state in Indian Punjab called Khalistan.

Anticipated to span eight hours, the voting process drew participation from Sikh leaders, highlighting grievances related to discriminatory practices by the Indian government, unjust policies, and reported atrocities against the Sikh community.  

The Sikhs participating in the referendum process said the Modi government is employing violence and oppression to strangle the Khalistan movement, They underscored the urgency of their collective desire to liberate themselves from the oppressive rule imposed by Indian authorities.

The Sikh Brotherhood, consisting of 35 lakh united Sikhs, pledged unwavering dedication to Khalistan movement.

Speaking on the occasion, the participants said that India finds itself subject to international censure for supporting terrorism and extremism, with the situation in the illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir serving as a stark illustration of the Modi government's stringent policies. Emphatically asserting that the Kashmir issue remains unaddressed by India in accordance with United Nations resolutions, the Sikh Brotherhood emphasized its commitment to attaining independence for Khalistan.