The demand for Khalistan, a separate Sikh state, has been a polarizing issue for
decades. Rooted in complex historical, religious, and political contexts, the Khalistan
movement is driven by a diaspora that often resides far from the realities of Punjab,
India. This has led to a phenomenon best described as " long-distance
nationalism& quot;—a form of political activism championed by those who live thousands of
miles from the region they claim to represent. However, this brand of
nationalism comes without the accompanying responsibilities or consequences.
The Rise of Long-Distance Nationalism
The Khalistan movement emerged in the late 20th century, gaining momentum
during Punjab's turbulent period in the 1980s. Following Operation Blue Star and the
assassination of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the movement became more militant.
However, while the violent phase of the Khalistan movement largely subsided in
India, it found fertile ground in countries like Canada, the UK, and the United States.
In these nations, Sikh diaspora communities have used their resources and relative
safety to advocate for Khalistan. They organize protests, fundraise, and lobby foreign
governments, all while living in democratic societies that shield them from the
consequences of their activism. This distance from Punjab allows them to maintain a
romanticized and often outdated vision of Khalistan, disconnected from the ground
realities of the region.
No Accountability, No Consequences
One of the most striking aspects of long-distance nationalism is the lack of
accountability. Activists in the diaspora promote separatism and even justify
violence, yet they do not have to face the social, economic, or political repercussions
of their rhetoric. Unlike the people of Punjab, who endured decades of insurgency,
loss, and instability, these activists remain insulated from the consequences of their
actions. This detachment creates a dangerous dynamic. Diaspora activists can call
for extreme measures, such as armed struggle or economic boycotts, without having
to confront the human costs. They do not have to navigate the complexities of
governance, economic development, or social cohesion. Instead, they can focus
solely on idealistic or radical objectives, leaving the responsibility of dealing with the
fallout to others.
The Role of the Diaspora
The Sikh diaspora has played a significant role in sustaining the Khalistan narrative.
Financial contributions from abroad have often funded separatist activities, including
propaganda and lobbying efforts. The influence of organizations highlights how diaspora groups
can amplify the Khalistan cause on the global stage. However, this influence is often
viewed with suspicion and resentment in Punjab. Many Sikhs in India, including
prominent religious and political leaders, have distanced themselves from the
Khalistan movement. They recognize that the challenges facing Punjab—such as
unemployment, drug addiction, and agricultural distress—require practical solutions,
not separatist rhetoric. For them, the diaspora calls for Khalistan are out of touch
with the region current needs.
A Threat to Social Cohesion
Khalistani rhetoric has not only strained India’s unity but has also created rifts within
Sikh communities abroad. Many moderate Sikhs oppose the Khalistan movement,
viewing it as a fringe ideology that misrepresents Sikhism’s inclusive and peace-
loving principles. These divisions are often exacerbated by diaspora-driven
campaigns, which can become aggressive and intolerant toward dissenting voices.
Moreover, the Khalistan movement poses a threat to social cohesion in countries
where Sikh diaspora communities reside. In Canada, for example, tensions between
pro-Khalistan groups and other communities, including Hindus, have escalated in
recent years. The violent rhetoric and actions of some Khalistani supporters have led
to concerns about public safety and the radicalization of youth.
Political Opportunism
The Khalistan movement has also been used as a political tool by external actors.
Countries with adversarial relationships with India have exploited the issue to
destabilize the region. Meanwhile, some diaspora leaders have used the movement
as a platform to gain political clout, portraying themselves as defenders of Sikh
identity and rights. In this context, long-distance nationalism becomes a convenient
strategy for personal or political gain, rather than a genuine effort to address the
challenges faced by Sikhs in Punjab. This opportunism further undermines the
credibility of the Khalistan cause, reducing it to a pawn in larger geopolitical games.
Punjab’s Reality vs. Diaspora’s Perception
The reality in Punjab today is vastly different from the vision promoted by Khalistani
activists abroad. While Punjab still faces significant challenges, the state has largely
moved on from the violent separatist period of the 1980s and 1990s. Many young
Sikhs in Punjab are more focused on education, employment, and cultural
preservation than on reviving the Khalistan movement. In contrast, the diaspora
often clings to a historical narrative that no longer resonates with the majority of
Punjab’s population. This disconnect highlights the limitations of long-distance
nationalism. Without a deep understanding of the current social and political
landscape, diaspora activism risks being more harmful than helpful.
The Way Forward
Addressing the Khalistan issue requires a multi-faceted approach. For one,
governments in countries with significant Sikh populations must ensure that freedom
of speech is not abused to promote extremism or violence. At the same time,
fostering dialogue within Sikh communities can help bridge the gap between the
diaspora and those living in Punjab. It is also crucial for the diaspora to focus on
constructive contributions. Instead of funding separatist movements, resources could
be directed toward initiatives that address Punjab’s pressing challenges, such as
education, healthcare, and economic development. Khalistan, as championed by
long-distance nationalists, is a movement driven by ideals but divorced from reality. It
is a nationalism without responsibility, where those who advocate for a separate Sikh
state do so from the safety and comfort of foreign lands. For the movement to have
any legitimacy, it must be rooted in the lived experiences and aspirations of the
people of Punjab, not in the distant dreams of a diaspora.(Sukhman Randhawa is a Volunteer writer for Punjab outlook and views expressed in this article are her own)