Transnational Identity and Political Mobilization: The Sikh Diaspora and the Khalistan Movement

Abstract

This piece considers the current dynamics of the politics of Sikh diaspora in connection to the Khalistan movement. The thesis explores the role of transnational identity based on historical grievances and contemporary socio political factors of the participants contributing to political mobilization amongst Sikh communities worldwide. This study explores the means, platforms, and types of activism that the diaspora utilize in advocating for Khalistan, as well as the state non-state actors’ response and contributions. The methodology used in the research is qualitative and makes use of case studies and existing literature in an attempt to study the complex interaction of politics, transnationalism, and identification in the Sikh diaspora. Findings depict how the diaspora came to play a changing role in homeland politics amidst tension over a tension to assimilate while remaining politically autonomous.