The correct answer is: a) An independent Sikh state.
The Khalistan movement was a Sikh separatist movement that sought to create an independent Sikh state called Khalistan in the Indian state of Punjab. The movement began in the 1970s and gained momentum in the 1980s. The movement was led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, a radical Sikh preacher who was killed in the Indian Army’s Operation Blue Star in 1984. The Khalistan movement was largely unsuccessful, but it did lead to a period of violence and unrest in Punjab.
Option b) is incorrect because the Khalistan movement was not seeking greater autonomy for Punjab. The movement was seeking independence for Punjab.
Option c) is incorrect because the Khalistan movement was not seeking recognition of Sikhism as a separate religion. Sikhism is already recognized as a separate religion in India.
Option d) is incorrect because the Khalistan movement was not seeking protection of minority rights. The movement was seeking independence for Punjab, not protection of minority rights.