2023-01-29: According to reports, several people were injured during violent clashes took place during the Khalistan Referendum held in Melbourne on Sunday (29 January). Clashes reportedly broke out between BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) supporters and pro-Khalistan activists in several locations in the city, including near the Shaheed Satwant Singh-Shaheed Kehar Singh Khalistan Referendum voting centre and the Flinders Street station. Police officers reportedly used pepper spray against several protesters participating in the violent clashes. The clashes also led to transport disruptions.
Heightened security measures and operations of security forces are to be expected. Violent clashes between protesters and security forces are possible. Travellers are advised to exercise caution, to strictly avoid demonstrations, road blockades, large gatherings, and deployments of security forces, and to follow instructions from security forces.
