In a concerning turn of events, Australian authorities have come under fire for succumbing to Indian pressure and canceling three venues that were booked for the Khalistan referendum voting in Sydney. The Greens Senator David Shoebridge has been a vocal critic of this decision raising serious concerns about the denial of the fundamental right to vote for local Sikhs, a right that is protected by Australian laws.
Senator David Shoebridge stands in solidarity with Australian Sikhs
Senator Shoebridge made his stance clear by visiting the voting venue to express his support for Australian Sikhs and their democratic rights. He emphasized the importance of peaceful expression through the ballot box and strongly criticized the Australian authorities for breaching the rights of Sikhs.
Moreover, he vehemently denounced the venue cancellations, highlighting the fact that yielding to political pressure undermines the very essence of democracy. He stood in solidarity with the Sikh community, defending their fundamental rights, including the right to vote in a democratic country like Australia.
Extremist Hindutva groups accused of Hindering Sikh referendum
The cancellation of the voting venues has been attributed to extremist Hindutva groups aligned with India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Rashtriya Sewak Sangh (RSS). Australian Sikhs have accused these groups of using false security concerns and launching mass email campaigns to disrupt the Sydney Khalistan Referendum.
Despite the venue cancellations, Sikh for Justice (SFJ) showed resilience and organized the voting at a truck yard in Michinbury. Thousands of Sikh men defied the odds and turned up to cast their votes, under the watchful eye of the independent Punjab Referendum Commission. This display of determination showcased the unwavering commitment of the Sikh community to exercise their democratic rights.
Heavy police presence amid fears of violence
Due to concerns of potential clashes, over 100 riot squad policemen were deployed outside the voting venue. The authorities took precautionary measures by closing roads leading to the venue, ensuring public safety and preventing any potential confrontations.
Furthermore, The Sydney phase of the Khalistan Referendum was organized to commemorate the anniversary of the 1984 Operation Blue Star Amritsar Genocide.
This tragic event saw the loss of thousands of Sikh lives during the Indian authorities’ violent attack on Sri Harmandir Sahib, more commonly known as the Golden Temple.
Failed attempt to stop Sikh Voting
Prior to the referendum, Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Australian authorities, urging them to prevent the Sikh voting process.
However, the Australian government maintained its commitment to upholding the legal and democratic rights of its own citizens, respecting India’s position while allowing Australians to express their opinions freely.
Allegations have surfaced regarding the collusion of Australian councils with Indian diplomatic missions to hinder Sikh voting. These allegations point to a concerted effort to undermine the Khalistan Referendum through diplomatic influence, raising concerns about the impartiality of the decision-making process.
Therefore, the cancellation of Sikh voting venues in Sydney has raised serious questions about foreign interference and the protection of democratic rights.
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Senator David Shoebridge’s criticism highlights the need to uphold the principles of democracy and stand in solidarity with communities facing undue pressure. Despite the obstacles faced, the Sikh community’s determination to exercise their democratic rights sends a powerful message of resilience and unwavering commitment to their cause.
