In the aftermath of a Khalistani referendum in Auckland, the New Zealand government has reiterated respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. The event, which was held at Aotea Square and organised by Sikhs for Justice, advocated a separate state carved out of northern Punjab in India.
The organization, Sikhs for Justice, has been designated as an unlawful association under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in India, and several criminal cases have been registered against the members of the organization by different agencies including the National Investigation Agency and various state police, particularly Punjab Police.
In a statement to WION, the New Zealand foreign ministry acknowledged awareness of the “so-called referendum” while underlining the country’s commitment to human rights, provided such initiatives are legal and non-violent.
Earlier, the SFJ had organised such referendums in places like Canada, Australia, and the UK. The Auckland event was heavily covered by Pakistani media, with live reporting from correspondents who interviewed the Khalistan movement supporters.
Good diplomatic relations have been shared between India and New Zealand. Dr S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister of India, and Winston Peters, the New Zealand Foreign Minister, held discussions on various subjects throughout this year, including an earlier meeting this month. Areas of key cooperation have included education, technology, agriculture, mobility, and the larger situation in the Indo-Pacific.
