Docs
  • What is a Referendum?

    • Referendum is the process of direct balloting to get the decision of a community on a straightforward political question or proposition requiring to be answered as YES or NO. While the Referendums could be held on constitutional or legislative questions, the most commonly known use of Referendums is to determine and resolve the territorial and sovereignty issues over a geographical region. Through referendums several nations have achieved independence. Most recently, South Sudan was created as an independent country through referendum. Scotland and Quebec both have held referenda on the question of independence from the UK and Canada, respectively.

  • What is Punjab Independence Referendum a.k.a Khalistan Referendum?

    • Punjab Independence or Khalistan Referendum is a campaign to liberate Punjab, currently occupied by India.

      Through voting among the global Sikh community and the people living in Indian Punjab on the question "Should Indian Governed Punjab Be An Independent Country?", the campaign aims to ascertain the will of the Sikhs living anywhere and Punjabis living in Indian Punjab people with regards to secession of Punjab from India and to establish an independent country. The referendum will advance the consensus among the indigenous people of Punjab on the question of sovereignty and the results of the Referendum will be presented to the United Nations seeking a UN supervised official referendum for the independence of Indian held Punjab.


  • What is the objective of the Punjab referendum campaign?

    • The objective of the Punjab/Khalistan Referendum campaign is to give the indigenous people of Indian held Punjab an opportunity to vote on the future and continued association of Punjab with the Union of India. Once an overwhelming majority of the Punjabi people express the wish through ballot for independence from India, United Nations and other international forums will be approached with the goal to hold an official and binding referendum for establishment of Indian Punjab as a sovereign nation state.


  • What is the difference between the Punjab referendum and an official referendum?

    • An official referendum has an outcome that is legally binding on all parties involved. In Sudan, the United Nations administered a referendum on the question of establishing South Sudan as an independent sovereign country in which an overwhelming majority of voters opted for independence and hence that mandate of the people was accepted by both the parties, and implemented by the United Nations. However, Punjab Referendum is an unofficial referendum where the outcome is not legally binding . Yet with an overwhelming YES vote this unofficial referendum will start the process which will pave the way for conducting an official and binding referendum in Indian held Punjab thereby achieving independence through democratic, peaceful and non violent means.


  • How is an official referendum that creates an independent country conducted?

    • The official referendums that grant independence and create separate countries are
      conducted by:
      a) The state or Union currently governing a territory agrees to hold a vote on the question of secession and independence. Canada and UK agreed and held the referenda giving the people of Quebec and Scotland the right to vote on the question of independence; OR
      b) UN intervenes and negotiates an agreement between a nation demanding
      independence and the country occupying its territory, to let the people of the land
      vote on the question of independence.


  • What is the law regarding official referendums and peoples right to self-
    determination?

    • Article 1 of the Charter of the United Nations grants the right to self-determination to all peoples. International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and The International Covenant on Economic and Cultural Rights also guarantees the right to self-determination for all peoples. Under UN laws, nations with a separate religion or language have the right to self-determination and can seek a referendum to gain independence from the country occupying their territory. India has signed and ratified all the UN laws that guarantee the right to self-determination to the people on the basis of separate religion and language.

      Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in Article 21(3), provides that the will of the people expressed through votes polled in secret and adult franchise, shall be the sole basis of the authority of government. Hence, all people have the fundamental and inalienable right to determine whether they wish to continue their lands and lives governed by the same Union or they wish to sever their ties from the Union and establish an independent country.

      In light of Article 1 of the UN Charter & ICCPR and Article 21(3) of UDHR, Khalistan Referendum is a completely lawful and democratic campaign.



  • Who is conducting and supervising the voting in Khalistan Referendum?

    • Khalistan Referendum is the initiative of advocacy group "Sikhs For Justice" (SFJ). The voting is being conducted under the supervision of a nonaligned panel of experts on direct democracy - the Punjab Referendum Commission (PRC) PRC's mandate is to supervise and monitor the Referendum Question, voter eligibility, registration, balloting, tabulation and counting to ensure the compliance with international standards.


  • When and Where the Voting For Khalistan Referendum Will Take Place?

    • The voting for Khalistan Referendum started on October 31, 2021 from London, United Kingdom and has so far taken place in Switzerland, Italy, Australia, Canada.

      Outside India:
      The voting outside India will be held in all the countries/cities with significant Sikh population.

      Inside India:
      In India, the voting will be held in the State of Indian Punjab.
      In India, the voting will also be held in other cities/districts/areas of India outside Punjab with a significant Sikh population.


  • Who is eligible to Vote in Punjab Independence/Khalistan Referendum.

    • For Voters Living In Indian Held Punjab:
      - Must be 18 Years or older on the day of voting
      - Must be indigenous Punjabi of any faith or religion living in Indian Held Punjab.

      For voters living outside Indian Punjab (Overseas or Other States/Areas of India), the eligibility is:
      - Must be 18 Years or older
      - Must be a Sikh
      NOTE: For voting outside Indian held Punjab, only SIKHS are eligible to vote. For voting inside Punjab, indigenous people of all faiths and religions living in Punjab are eligible to vote.

Past EventsMore

New Zealand
Nov 17, 2024

Auckland

Auckland, the vibrant metropolis of New Zealand, is home to a significant Sikh population. With over 50,832 Sikhs residing in the city, they form a vibrant and integral part of the diverse Auckland community. Their presence enriches the cultural tapestry of the city, contributing to its multiculturalism and fostering a harmonious society.

Auckland ‘referendum’ on Khalistan attracts thousands
Thousands descended on Auckland's Aotea Square on Sunday to vote in a non-binding "referendum" on the creation of an independent homeland for Sikhs within India.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/indonz/534118/auckland-referendum-on-khalistan-attracts-thousands
Over 37,000 Sikhs vote in New Zealand Khalistan Referendum
AUCKLAND: Over 37,000 Sikhs exercised their right to vote in the Khalistan Referendum held here for the creation of an independent Sikh state of Khalistan within India.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/574836-over-37000-sikhs-vote-in-new-zealand-khalistan-referendum
‘STRONG MESSAGE TO INDIA’: Over 37,000 Sikhs exercise right to vote in Khalistan Referendum held in Auckland
AUKLAND, NEW ZEALAND: Over 37,000 Sikhs exercised their right to vote in the Khalistan Referenum held here for the creation of an independent Sikh state of Khalistan within India.
https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2024/11/17/strong-message-to-india-over-37000-sikhs-exercise-right-to-vote-in-khalistan-referendum-held-in-aukland/
Canada
Jul 28, 2024

Calgary

Calgary, a vibrant city nestled in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, is renowned for its rich cultural diversity and dynamic community spirit. The Sikh community in Calgary is a significant and thriving part of this mosaic, with thousands of Sikhs calling this city home. They contribute actively to the city's cultural, economic, and social fabric. In recent years, the Calgary Sikh community has shown remarkable support for the Sikh referendum movement in India, advocating for the rights and self-determination of Sikhs. Through various initiatives, they have raised awareness, engaged in meaningful dialogues, and mobilized support for this cause. This upcoming event in Calgary aims to further unite and galvanize the community towards the shared vision of justice and autonomy for Sikhs, reflecting the community's enduring commitment to their heritage and future.

53,000 Sikhs Vote For Khalistan Against Indian
Over 53,000 Sikhs exercised their right to vote in the Khalistan Referendum held in Calgary, Canada under the auspices of Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). At the conclusion of the referendum, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, the leader of SFJ organization in a video-lin
https://www.urdupoint.com/en/pakistan/53000-sikhs-vote-for-khalistan-against-india-1848364.html
WATCH: Khalistan supporters in Calgary demand India be killed
A group of Khalistan supporters denigrated India when they gathered in front of the Calgary Municipal Building to vote in a referendum about a separate Sikh state in the country.
https://www.westernstandard.news/alberta/watch-khalistan-supporters-in-calgary-demand-india-be-killed/56459
Over 55000 Canadian Sikhs cast vote in Khalistan referendum
CALGARY: More than 55,000 Canadian Sikhs cast their votes in the Khalistan Referendum held at the Municipal Plaza voting centre in Calgary. The event was dedicated to the memory of nine pro-Khalistan Canadian Sikhs who lost their lives in armed conflict
https://arynews.tv/delhi-banega-khalistan-over-55000-canadian-sikhs-cast-vote-in-khalistan-referendum/
Calgary's stance on Khalistan vote being held at Municipal Plaza
On Sunday, Sikhs for Justice, a U.S.-based group, has been granted permission by the City of Calgary to hold a non-binding referendum vote at Municipal Plaza. Mayor Jyoti Gondek does not see this as an issue. Phoenix Phillips reports.
https://calgary.citynews.ca/video/2024/07/26/calgarys-stance-on-khalistan-vote-being-held-at-municipal-plaza/
Canada: Voting for Khalistan Referendum today
In Canada, voting for Khalistan Referendum is being held today. Sikhs for Justice, a US-based group, has been granted permission by the City of Calgary to hold a non-binding referendum vote at the Municipal Plaza.
https://www.radio.gov.pk/28-07-2024/canada-voting-for-khalistan-referendum-today
Canada: Sikhs for Justice plans to hold Khalistan referendum on July 28
SFJ’s ....... by pro-Khalistan Sikhs in thousands
https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/canada-sikhs-for-justice-plans-to-hold-khalistan-referendum-on-july-28-101720774662623.html
Sikh activists mark one-year anniversary of Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s death
A Sikh activist marking the anniversary of the killing of British Columbia temple leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar says the past year has shown they are vindicated in their claims that India targeted separatists overseas.
https://globalnews.ca/news/10572649/one-year-anniversary-hardeep-singh-nijjar-death/
WorldNo ban on Sikhs to participate in Khalistan Referendum voting
Calgary: The Mayor of Calgary has said that the city council cannot stop Khalistan Referendum voting on July 28th after the objections raised by the Indian government against the event that is set to attract thousands of pro-Khalistan Sikhs.
https://gnnhd.tv/news/37416/no-ban-on-sikhs-to-participate-in-khalistan-referendum-voting
United States of America
Mar 31, 2024

Sacramento

Sacramento, capital of the U.S. state of California, lies at the confluence of the Sacramento River and American River. The district of Old Sacramento harkens back to the city’s Gold Rush era, with wooden sidewalks and wagon rides. One of several museums in Old Sacramento, the California State Railroad Museum depicts the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad, one of the country’s earliest technological feats.

Khalistan Referendum: Jathedar Kaunke, 'extra-judicially' killed in India, honoured in California
LONDON/SACRAMENTO: Over 60,000 American Sikhs took part in Khalistan Referendum second phase voting on Sunday in a historic event organised by secessionist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) at the California State Capitol in Sacramento, under the protection o
https://www.geo.tv/latest/537515-khalistan-referendum-jathedar-kaunke-extra-judicially-killed-in-india-honoured-in-california
United States of America
Jan 28, 2024

San Francisco

SAN FRANCISCO/LONDON: More than 127,000 American Sikhs voted for the Khalistan Referendum for the first time on American soil.

AMERICAN PHASE OF KHALISTAN REFERENDUM

Name of Event: Khalistan Referendum
Venue: Civic Center Plaza, City Hall, San Francisco
Date: January 28, 2024
Time: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Over 127,000 vote for Khalistan Referendum in San Francisco
SAN FRANCISCO/LONDON: More than 127,000 American Sikhs voted for the Khalistan Referendum for the first time on American soil
https://www.geo.tv/latest/528982-over-127000-vote-for-khalistan-referendum-in-san-francisco
Massive turnout as over 127,000 in San Francisco vote for Khalistan
San Francisco: Over 127,000 American Sikhs cast their votes for the Khalistan Referendum on American soil,
https://kmsnews.org/kms/2024/01/29/massive-turnout-as-over-127000-in-san-francisco-vote-for-khalistan.html
Canada
Oct 29, 2023

Surrey British Columbia

Surrey, British Columbia, a vibrant Canadian city known for its diverse population, cultural richness, and a significant Sikh community, recently hosted the Khalistan referendum, drawing attention to its role in the Sikh diaspora's political engagement.

Over 200,000 Sikhs voted in Khalistan Referendum in Canada
Over 200,000 Canadian Sikhs eligible to vote in Surrey, Canada for the Khalistan referendum, signaling a significant participation in this crucial political process.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/516704-over-200000-canadian-sikhs-vote-in-khalistan-referendum-voting-in-surrey-canada
Canada
Sep 10, 2023

Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey

Surrey, British Columbia, stands as a vibrant Canadian city renowned for its cultural diversity and a substantial Sikh population. The Sikh community there is notably influential, contributing significantly to the city's social fabric and cultural richness. With numerous Sikh temples (Gurdwaras) and active participation in political and social initiatives, it remains a hub for Sikh diaspora engagement and a focal point for discussions around issues like the Khalistan Referendum.

SFJ set to hold Khalistan Referendum Phase II in October
SFJ's Khalistan Referendum-II in Surrey, BC, echoes Canadian leadership's support, aiming for justice over Hardeep Singh Nijjar's assassination, marking a shift to peaceful methods while emphasizing Sikh rights globally.
https://dunyanews.tv/en/World/755176-Phase-II-of-Khalistan-Referendum-in-Canada-in-October
Canada
Jul 16, 2023

Malton

Malton, Ontario, serves as a significant center for the Sikh community in Canada. With a sizable population of Sikhs, Malton stands as a vibrant hub of cultural richness and activism. The Sikh presence is evident through various temples (Gurdwaras) and active community engagement, notably demonstrated during events such as the Khalistan Referendum, showcasing solidarity and determination for Sikh rights and justice.

Over 42,000 Canadian Sikhs participate in Khalistan Referendum despite Indian threats
Rejecting intimidation tactics following the assassination of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, signaling unwavering support for Sikh rights and justice globally.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/499805-over-42000-canadian-sikhs-participate-in-khalistan-referendum-despite-indian-threats
Australia
Jun 4, 2023

Sydney

Australia's largest city with a stunning harbor, iconic landmarks, vibrant arts and culture scene, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Over 31,000 Australian Sikhs vote for Khalistan Referendum amid India objections
https://www.geo.tv/latest/491153-over-31000-australian-sikhs-vote-for-khalistan-referendum-amid-india-objections
Over 31000 Australian Sikhs vote in Sydney despite Hindutva threats
http://globalvillagespace.com/over-31000-australian-sikhs-vote-in-sydney-despite-hindutva-threats/
Australia
Mar 19, 2023

Brisbane

The sunny, laid-back capital city of Queensland, Australia with a thriving arts scene, bustling nightlife, and easy access to nearby beaches and national parks.

Over 11,000 vote for Khalistan Referendum in Brisbane amid cyber attacks
11k+ Sikhs took part in the second phase of Khalistan Referendum voting at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre amid a massive wave of Indian cyber security mercenary attacks on the electronic voting machines.
https://www.geo.tv/latest/477230-over-11000-vote-amidst-cyber-attacks-on-khalistan-referendum-sites-in-brisbane
More than 11000 Sikhs voted in Khalistan Referendum in Australia's Brisbane city
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4I_XJjV0-mI
11,000 Sikhs vote for Khalistan in Brisbane amid India’s cyber attack
https://www.nation.com.pk/20-Mar-2023/11-000-sikhs-vote-for-khalistan-in-brisbane-amid-india-s-cyber-attack
India launches mercenary cyber-attacks on Khalistan Referendum voting in Australia
https://thefrontierpost.com/india-launches-mercenary-cyber-attacks-on-khalistan-referendum-voting-in-australia/
Canada
Sep 18, 2022

Toronto

Brampton, Ontario, stands as a bustling Canadian city known for its substantial Sikh population and vibrant cultural presence. With a strong Sikh community contributing to the city's diversity, Brampton houses numerous Gurdwaras (Sikh temples) and hosts events like the Khalistan Referendum, showcasing the community's engagement in advocating for Sikh rights and self-determination on a global platform.

110,000 vote in canadian khalistan referendum, demanding shimla as free punjab’s capital
More than 110,000 Canadian Sikhs made history in Brampton, voting for Khalistan's independent state, demanding self-determination and designating Shimla as the capital.
http://blogs.dunyanews.tv/29554/
Italy
May 8, 2022

Brescia

Brescia, Italy, a city steeped in history and art, boasts a dynamic Sikh community, enhancing its cultural mosaic with their traditions and enriching the city's cultural fabric.

Khalistan Referendum voting reaches Italy in new major development
BRESCIA, ITALY – Thousands of Sikhs from across the European Union (EU) gathered in Italian city of Brescia here to take part in the EU phase in global Khalistan Referendum for secession of Punjab from India.
https://en.dailypakistan.com.pk/08-May-2022/khalistan-referendum-voting-reaches-italy-in-new-major-development
Over 40,000 Oppressed Sikh People Came To Cast Vote For #khalistan Referendum In Italy Against india
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0OYno1KUUCs&ab_channel=PAKDEFENSE.OFFICIAL
Over 40,000 Sikhs vote in Khalistan Referendum in Italy
https://www.radio.gov.pk/09-05-2022/record-breaking-over-40000-sikhs-vote-in-khalistan-referendum-in-italy
United Kingdom
Jan 9, 2022

Luton and Leeds

The Sikh community cast the ballot in the referendum from 10am to 5pm at Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Luton and Sikh Temple Chapel Town Road in Leeds.

With 20,000 votes in favour of Khalistan state cast by the British Sikh community at four venues on 31 Dec 21, the overall figure of votes cast in the Khalistan referendum crossed the 200,000 mark with today's balloting.

According to SFJ General Counsel Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, Sikhs in Britain have spoken clearly through voting that they want the liberation of Punjab from the Indian occupation.

Another round of Khalistan referendum held in UK cities
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2337912/another-round-of-khalistan-referendum-held-in-uk-cities
Switzerland
Dec 10, 2021

Geneva

Geneva, a hub of global diplomacy, embraces a diverse Sikh community, fostering unity through cultural exchange and engagement. Sikhs in Geneva actively contribute to the city's cultural vibrancy, promoting harmony and service within its multicultural tapestry.

Geneva gears up for secessionist Khalistan Referendum voting
https://www.geo.tv/latest/386798-geneva-gears-up-for-secessionist-khalistan-referendum-voting
Over 6,000 Sikhs in Geneva vote for Khalistan Referendum despite snowstorm
https://www.geo.tv/latest/387060-over-6000-sikhs-in-geneva-vote-for-khalistan-referendum-defying-snowstorm
United Kingdom
Dec 5, 2021

Sunderland

A historic university city in southeast England, known for its beautiful architecture, picturesque river, and world-renowned universities, including the University of Cambridge.

Fifth phase of referendum for Sikh homeland being held in UK today
https://www.thenews.com.pk/latest/914284-fifth-phase-of-referendum-for-sikh-homeland-being-held-today
5th phase of Khalistan referendum held in Sunderland UK UNO
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwIXOpTEx2s&ab_channel=GeoNews
Who Says What

U.S Declaration of Independence July 04, 1776

 - When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

- We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,

 --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. 

-- Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. 

-- But when a long train of abuses and usurpation, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. Date : July 04, 1776

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Article 3 - UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous People.

Indigenous peoples have the right to self determination. By virtue of that right they freely determine their political  status and freely pursue their Economic, Social and Cultural Development. Date 13.10.2007

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FORMER BRITISH PRIME MINISTER MARGARET THATCHER 1997.

I'm standing up for the right of self-determination. I'm standing up for our territory. I'm standing up for our people. I'm standing up for international law. I'm standing up for all those territories - those small territories and peoples the world over - who, if someone doesn't stand up and say to an invader 'enough, stop', would be at risk.  DATE:  1.10.1997

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Human Rights Lawyer and Former U.N. Independent Expert on the promotion of a democratic and equitable international order.

“In its essence, the right of self-determination means that individuals and peoples should be in control of their destinies and should be able to live out their identities, whether within the boundaries of existing States or through independence." Date: 10.11.2014

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Former President of France (1995-2007)

"I am logically in favour of a referendum. It would be the only legitimate way. " — Jacques Chirac, Date: June 22, 2003

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Actor

“The wish of the people, the society, to decide about its future and to vote is fundamental. If a majority says yes, it must be assumed.” - 15.02.17

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Two time Latvian president

“It’s the human point of view of the identity of people and how they identify with a nation state. If at some point they feel that the central government does not represent their interests and that they have an identity that they want to defend, according to the principle of self-determination, one should allow for a referendum because a referendum is an expression of people’s choice and people’s opinion.” - 23.02.14

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Polish priest and theologian. Assistant secretary of the International Theological Commission of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith at the Vatican

“There is a fundamental principle for the social doctrine of the Church, which is the right of self determination. It is therefore inadmissible in the name of the Church to qualify as immoral those who defend a nation’s rights or identity.” - 08.09.15

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FC Barcelona football player and team captain

“We absolutely have the right to vote. We must vote, the people must express themselves and I am in favour of the consultation, of course.” - 17.09.14

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Prime Minister of Japan

“We shall respect the right of self-determination of all peoples throughout the world.” - 14.08.15

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US President

“We believe that right makes might – that bigger nations should not be able to bully smaller ones; that people should be able to choose their own future. These are simple truths, but they must be defended.” - 24.09.14

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Barack Obama’s Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications and Speech writing

“Sometimes autonomy works, sometimes peoples end up being independent states, sometimes there are unions, and so I think as a general matter we support there being a process of reviewing these issues in each country, but ultimately each country, each set of peoples, is going to make their own determinations.” - 31.01.14

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Deputy First Minister of Scotland and Deputy Leader of the SNP

“Every country has the right to self-determination. (…) The agreement between the governments in London and Edinburgh to authorize an independence referendum in Scotland is a model for how these issues can be solved in other countries too.” - 13.02.14

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