A recent interview with Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun on the Canadian investigative program The Fifth Estate has brought renewed attention to the long-simmering issue of Khalistan. Pannun, a vocal advocate for an independent Sikh state carved from Indian territory, declared that Khalistan would become a reality within 11 to 21 years.
While dismissed by many as an ambitious and unrealistic goal, Pannun's strategy appears to hinge on leveraging Western powers. He seeks to legitimize Khalistan through a non-binding referendum, hoping influential nations like Canada and the United States will offer recognition, bolstering the movement's international standing.
Pannun, a citizen of both Canada and the United States, is alleged to have ties to intelligence agencies, including the CIA. These rumored connections raise questions about potential foreign support for his separatist agenda. His organization's efforts to gain entry into the United States suggest a desire to expand influence and support beyond Canada's borders.
However, The Indian government has a different view. Long considering the Khalistan movement a threat to national unity, India categorizes it as a dangerous form of separatism. They have consistently opposed external interference in their affairs and will likely reject any move to legitimize the Khalistan cause.
The renewed debate over Khalistan threatens to strain Indo-Canadian and Indo-American relations. More broadly, it raises concerns about the potential destabilization of the South Asian region.