In a powerful and spontaneous moment captured on video, a New Zealand man in Auckland delivered a blunt message to Khalistan supporters: “Go back to your country.” This incident, which has gone viral on social media, is a stark reminder of the growing global rejection of separatist extremism. The man, wearing a New Zealand basketball vest, passionately condemned the display of the “disgusting yellow flag,” a reference to the Khalistani banner, asserting that the only flag that should wave high in New Zealand is its own.
“HOW DARE YOU!” screamed a New Zealand man protesting against the crowd gathered at the Khalistan “referendum” in Auckland. He appeared offended by the overwhelming presence of Khalistan flags compared to New Zealand’s.
— Mocha Bezirgan 🇨🇦 (@BezirganMocha) November 17, 2024
“Go back to your own country! Don’t bring your foreign… pic.twitter.com/TAqEtQiZCx
His words struck a chord: “What makes you think you can come to this country when soldiers left this country and are buried on foreign soil?” It was a poignant rebuke, invoking the sacrifices of New Zealanders who have fought and died for freedom, not for divisive ideologies imported from abroad. The man’s sentiment echoes a broader frustration felt by many who believe their countries should not be platforms for foreign separatist agendas.
The incident occurred on the heels of a so-called “Khalistan referendum” held in Auckland on November 17. Pro-Khalistani elements gathered under the watchful eye of police to advocate for a separate state carved out of India. Videos from the event show participants wielding swords, a chilling display that raises serious concerns about the nature of their activities. While the referendum itself lacked any legal or political standing, its symbolism was not lost on observers: the event was yet another attempt to sow division and disrupt harmony, even far from Indian soil.
Now in NEW ZEALAND: Khalistan supporters have begun gathering in Auckland to promote their unofficial “referendum” aimed at balkanizing India.
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) November 17, 2024
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This moment is a wake-up call, not just for New Zealand but for all democracies grappling with the challenges of extremist ideologies. Khalistan supporters have increasingly sought to leverage the freedoms of liberal democracies to push their agenda, often resorting to intimidation and violence. Yet, the vocal opposition from ordinary citizens, like the man in the video, underscores a growing intolerance for such divisiveness.
New Zealand, like many other nations, prides itself on its multicultural society and open arms to those who seek refuge and opportunity. However, with those freedoms come responsibilities. Importing violent or separatist ideologies undermines the very fabric of the societies that offer these freedoms. The man’s outburst, while heated, resonates because it defends the core values of national unity and respect for the rule of law.
This incident also highlights the double standard often employed by Khalistan supporters. While they wave their flags and demand a homeland in India, many of them have chosen to live in countries like New Zealand, enjoying its safety, prosperity, and democracy. If their cause is so just and noble, why not pursue it within India, through peaceful and democratic means? The truth is that their methods — and often their rhetoric — betray an agenda that is less about justice and more about spreading chaos.
Moreover, the fact that the Auckland police allowed the referendum to proceed despite its provocative nature is a testament to New Zealand’s commitment to free expression. Yet, this freedom should not be abused. Displays of weaponry and aggressive posturing must be met with firm legal action. Societies must draw a clear line between lawful advocacy and actions that incite fear or violence.
The message from Auckland is clear: the world is watching, and the patience for extremist posturing is wearing thin. Khalistan supporters may find temporary platforms in foreign lands, but their divisive message will ultimately be rejected. Democracies thrive on unity and inclusiveness, not on the importation of foreign conflicts. The man’s passionate plea — for respect, unity, and national pride — is a powerful reminder that New Zealanders, like people everywhere, will not stand by as their home is used as a stage for extremist propaganda.
The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of Khalsa Vox or its members.
