Sikh separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has declared Shimla as the proposed capital of a “Democratic Republic of Khalistan” during an unofficial referendum held in Indiana, United States. SFJ General Counsel Gurpatwant Singh Pannun addressed the gathering through a video link and announced Shimla as the proposed capital. He also accused the Indian government of committing genocide against Sikhs.

Sikh separatist group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) has declared Shimla as the proposed capital of a “Democratic Republic of Khalistan” during an unofficial referendum held in Indiana, United States.

SFJ General Counsel Gurpatwant Singh Pannun addressed the gathering through a video link and announced Shimla as the proposed capital. He also accused the Indian government of committing genocide against Sikhs.

At the end of the event, Pannun released a map showing the proposed territory of Khalistan and claimed that Sikhs had a legal right to defend their religion and families.

He also accused New Delhi of waging what he called a “three-front war” against Punjab. Pannun further alleged that drug use was devastating Punjab’s youth, while agricultural debt and financial difficulties were pushing Sikh farmers towards suicide.

During the event, he also paid tribute to Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Talwinder Singh Parmar and Lakhbir Singh Rode.

According to SFJ, the next phase of its referendum campaign will be held in Alberta, Canada, on October 18. The group lists the Indiana referendum as having taken place on August 16, 2026.

The allegations of genocide and a “three-front war,” as well as SFJ’s claims regarding a proposed Khalistan government, remain statements by Pannun and SFJ and have not been independently established as facts.

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