Recently, the city council in Sydney cancelled a Khalistan event scheduled for 4th June, 2023 due to security concerns. The permission given to the event organised by ‘Sikhs For Justice’ group in Blacktown City was revoked on the advice of security agencies. In a statement, the council said, “Council has, this morning, cancelled this booking as it is in conflict with adopted Council policy and due to risks to Council staff, Council assets and members of the public which cannot be practicably mitigated.” The council also added, “Council’s decision is in no way an endorsement of, or criticism of, any political position relating to the internal affairs of India or Pakistan and must not be represented as support for any particular political position”.
Banners and posters related to the event were also removed from public properties around the city, citing a lack of approval. The report also noted that an investigation is underway against the group organising the event based in Victoria. An official involved in the matter said that the group may have connection with an unaccounted money trail is being investigated. The news outlet ‘Australia Today’ first reported the cancellation. The cancellation comes after the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, a prominent Hindu temple in Sydney, was defaced a few weeks ago with anti-India graffiti on the walls. It is only latest in a series of acts of vandalism against Hindu temples in the country, allegedly by pro-Khalistani elements.
Impact on Future Khalistan Events:
Since quite a while ago, Khalistani groups have established strongholds in Australia, the United Kingdom, and Canada. These groups claim that their political views are suppressed at home, but their argument of free speech is coming under closer scrutiny as authorities look into their use of threats, intimidation, and money laundering. Following could be the potential impact of this cancellation on other such events in Australia or elsewhere:
Reputational Implications for ‘Sikhs For Justice” Group: The cancellation of the scheduled event in Sydney may cast a shadow over the reputation of the "Sikhs For Justice" group. The decision by the city council to revoke permission, coupled with the ongoing investigation into the group's connection to an unaccounted money trail, raises questions about the group's credibility and intentions. This setback could potentially make it more challenging for the group to gain support and organize future events, as public trust may waver due to the controversies surrounding them.
Heightened Scrutiny and Government Intervention: The authorities are likely to closely monitor the activities and affiliations of similar organizations, to ensure public safety and prevent any potential disruptions. This heightened scrutiny may include stricter regulations, enhanced security measures, and increased surveillance, making it more difficult for such groups to operate.
International Perception and Support: As the news spreads, individuals and organizations sympathetic to the cause may revaluate their support or become hesitant to associate themselves with the "Sikhs For Justice" group due to the controversies surrounding it. This could impact the movement's ability to garner global attention and support in the long run.
Ripple Effect on such Future Events: The decision sets a precedent that local authorities are willing to prioritize security concerns and public safety over permitting gatherings that may have controversial political undertones. This may deter other cities and councils from granting permissions for similar events, leading to a potential decline in the frequency and scale of such gatherings. Ultimately, the cancellation of the Sydney event serves as a reminder of the complex dynamics at play when navigating politically charged issues. The decision to revoke permission for the event reflects a delicate balance between ensuring public safety and upholding democratic values.
