In New Zealand, voting was held in the referendum for creation of an independent Sikh state within India to be known as Khalistan. Long queues of voters including women, youth and the elderly were seen at Aotea Square of Auckland before the voting began at 9 this morning.

Leaders from the Indian diaspora have criticised the event, warning that it could cause discord and disrupt social harmony.

A pro-Khalistan group, Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), held a ‘referendum’ on Sunday at Aotea Square in Auckland, New Zealand, calling for an independent Sikh homeland. This event, part of a series of similar activities organized by SFJ in various countries, has drawn sharp criticism from the Indian community in New Zealand.

After Sikhs for Justice held a referendum in New Zealand that aimed to carve out a sovereign state from India’s Punjab, the New Zealand government said that it is “aware of the so-called referendum” and respects and recognises India’s “sovereignty and territorial integrity”,

The referendum underscored the Sikh community's enduring commitment to the cause of Khalistan, demonstrating a significant moment of solidarity and advocacy on an international stage.

President Narendra Bhana of the New Zealand Indian Central Association emphasized the need for urgent unity and vigilance against "foreign influences" that might threaten to disturb the peace in the nation.

The Khalistan referendum in New Zealand has send a strong message to India to end its persecution of Sikhs. A report released by Kashmir Media Service, says results of the Khalistan referendum will be shared with the United Nations and international bodies to build global support for a separate Sikh homeland.

In a statement to WION, the New Zealand foreign ministry said that it is "aware of the so-called 'referendum'," and while the country is a "strong supporter of human rights at home and around the worl