Washington — In a bold move, leaders from the Khalistan movement have offered $1 billion to secure a position on the Board of Peace (BoP), an initiative associated with US President Donald Trump. The group is urging Trump to support the liberation of Punjab from what they describe as Indian occupation and to facilitate an official referendum on independence for the region.
Dr. Bakshish Singh Sandhu, President of the Council of Khalistan, announced the proposal, which includes a substantial $1 billion contribution specifically earmarked to fund and organize a referendum on Khalistan's independence. Protesters gathered outside the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace in Washington, where they displayed a symbolic oversized check issued by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). The check was inscribed with "$1 billion for Khalistan referendum" and a demand to "liberate Punjab from Indian occupation," along with the timeline "1984–2026" referencing key historical events.
Speaking to Pakistan TV Digital, protester Jagjit Singh explained the motivation behind the offer. He stated that the funds are intended to support "liberation from Indian occupation" and emphasized the group's desire for a peaceful, democratic referendum in Indian Punjab. The Khalistan advocates expressed support for Trump's Board of Peace initiative, aimed at preventing global conflicts, and voiced hope that joining the board would help advance their cause internationally.
Singh highlighted the historical context, noting that since 1947—when Sikh leaders initially aligned with India— the Sikh community has endured decades of alleged persecution and atrocities. He stressed that the movement seeks resolution through non-violent and democratic means.
Addressing India directly, he delivered a firm message: "Our demand is clear. We seek liberation from India via a peaceful and democratic process. Attempts by Modi to assassinate Khalistan movement leaders have failed. We will not back down and will continue our struggle until Punjab achieves liberation."
The proposal comes amid ongoing activism by groups like Sikhs for Justice, which has previously organized referendums on Khalistan independence in various countries, including on US soil. The $1 billion pledge is framed as both a financial commitment to peace efforts and a strategic push for international recognition of their demands.
This development underscores the persistent push by Khalistan supporters to internationalize their cause, linking it to broader global peace initiatives under the current US administration.