In New Zealand, voting was held in the referendum for creation of an independent Sikh state within India to be known as Khalistan. Long queues of voters including women, youth and the elderly were seen at Aotea Square of Auckland before the voting began at 9 this morning.

The independent Punjab Referendum Commission (PRC) is conducting the referendum. Dr Bakhshish Singh Sandhu, the President of Council of Khalistan and founding member of Sikhs For Justice, announced that the total votes cast were over 37,

Leaders from the Indian diaspora have criticised the event, warning that it could cause discord and disrupt social harmony.

President Narendra Bhana of the New Zealand Indian Central Association emphasized the need for urgent unity and vigilance against "foreign influences" that might threaten to disturb the peace in the nation.

The referendum underscored the Sikh community's enduring commitment to the cause of Khalistan, demonstrating a significant moment of solidarity and advocacy on an international stage.

New Zealand dismissing India’s objections has granted permission to Sikhs for Justice to hold a Khalistan Referendum scheduled to be held at Aotea Square in Auckland on Sunday. Local authorities have assured the Sikh community that the referendum will proceed as planned.

In a statement to WION, the New Zealand foreign ministry said that it is "aware of the so-called 'referendum'," and while the country is a "strong supporter of human rights at home and around the worl