Paris, (Younis Khan) – Members of the Sikh community in France staged a protest demonstration at Place de la République in Paris to mark 42 years since the Indian Army’s operation at the Golden Temple.

June 1984 remains a significant and tragic period in Sikh history due to Operation Blue Star, an event widely regarded by many Sikhs as a major tragedy. Speakers at the gathering said that the killings of Sikhs and the desecration of their holiest shrine in June 1984 compelled many within the community to seek a separate homeland.

Addressing the protest, speakers paid tribute to those who lost their lives during the events of June 1984 and reaffirmed their stance on Sikh rights, freedom, and justice. Community leaders called for justice for Sikhs and described the establishment of Khalistan as essential for achieving freedom from Indian rule.

The speakers maintained that the Sikh community now sees the creation of Khalistan as the only viable option and stated that Sikhs around the world are united in their desire for a homeland where they can preserve their religion and culture.

Sikh community representatives also urged European media outlets and governments to speak out against what they described as illegal and criminal activities carried out by the Indian government. They called for accountability under international law for actions they alleged included transnational repression and targeted killings.

Sikh leaders Man Singh, Satram Singh, Tara Singh, and Raghbir Singh addressed the gathering. They noted that the protest was particularly significant as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit France in the coming days to attend the G7 Summit. They said it was important to highlight what they described as injustices faced by Sikhs in India during his visit.

Participants carried placards bearing messages related to the events of 1984, while pamphlets highlighting alleged human rights violations against Sikhs were distributed among the public. Protesters also raised slogans in support of Khalistan.