Why the Khalistani flags, irked people ask Indian-American politician

Jenifer Rajkumar, the first Punjabi-American elected to New York state office, expressed her pride in attending the Sikh Day Parade as the Guest of Honour. She lauded the Sikh community’s commitment to values of equality, unity, and compassion, recognising their important role in New York City’s diverse culture. However, an image shared by Jenifer Rajkumar where Khalistani flags are seen in the background has sparked a row.

Rajkumar was at the Sikh Day Parade, which is known as Khalsa Day or Vaisaki, the day that marks the celebration of the Sikh New Year.

After the event, Jenifer Rajkumar wrote about it on X, “As the first Punjabi-American ever elected to a New York state office, I was so proud to be Guest of Honour at the Sikh Day Parade. Sikhs promote equality, unity, and compassion every day. We are blessed to have a thriving Sikh community as part of the gorgeous mosaic of New York City.”

However, Jenifer’s post sparked controversy online as some users pointed to the presence of a Khalistani flag in the background of a photo she shared.

“Khalistani flags can be seen in the background. By associating yourself with supporters of terrorists who blew up Air India Flight 182, killing 329 people, you are endorsing this ideology,” said a user on X.

The user was referring to the blowing up of Air India Kanishka bombing of June 23, 1985. A bomb exploded on Air India Flight 182, which was going from Toronto to London, England, killing all 329 people on board. Most of those killed were Canadians and the terror attack by Khalistani separatists remains the worst terrorist attack in Canadian history.

“By affiliating with Khalistani separatists, you have disappointed Hindus, as these groups have been responsible for the brutal elimination of thousands of Hindu minorities in Punjab. It is shameful for you to associate with them,” another person said on X, calling out the photo of Jenifer Rajkumar.

“Jenifer Rajkumar is promoting Khalistani terrorism and has links within #Pakistan,” said yet another person.

This incident in the US came even as pro-Khalistan slogans were also raised at an event in Toronto as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau addressed the crowd.

In his speech, Trudeau went on to assure the Sikh community that the Canadian government would protect their rights and freedoms at all costs.