A group of pro-Khalistani protesters on Sunday attacked and vandalized the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, US. The attack sparked immense backlash from Indian-Americans, who demanded immediate action against those responsible. The Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) issued a statement, slamming the "complete law and order failure" in both London and San Francisco, where the Indian diplomatic missions were attacked by some radicalized separatists.
The Khalistani sympathisers broke through makeshift security barriers, installed two so-called Khalistani flags inside the consulate, and started hitting the door and windows with rods they had in their hands, causing significant damage. Two consulate personnel later removed the flags. San Francisco police have not commented on the incident.
Community leader Ajay Bhutoria vehemently condemned the attack by pro-Khalistani protesters on the Consulate of India building in San Francisco. He called for local authorities to take swift action against the perpetrators and bring them to justice. Bhutoria also urged members of the community to unite and promote peace and harmony.
FIIDS stated that it was disconcerting to see that the UK and the US failing to fulfil their commitments under the Vienna Convention to protect diplomatic missions. The organisation urged law and order institutions like the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the FBI, and the CIA to ensure that terrorism does not find a place or support in the United States.
According to FIIDS, Pakistan's spy agency, ISI, is behind the instigation and funding of Sikh radicalisation with false propaganda. The organisation called on Indian-Americans, including those from Sikh-majority, to rise against extremism.
Bhutoria voiced his condemnation of the violent acts. He urged people to work together towards a world where all communities can live in peace and mutual respect. He emphasized the importance of unity and working together to overcome any challenge.
Earlier on Sunday, following a massive manhunt for Khalistan sympathiser Amritpal Singh in Punjab, his supporters in London created a ruckus at the Indian High Commission building. Supporters of Khalistan staged a demonstration in front of the Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom, waving Amritpal Singh-themed flags and posters. They also allegedly brought down the Indian flag at the high commission.
INDIA SLAMS VANDALISATION
In a meeting with the US Charge d’Affaires in Delhi, India conveyed its strong protest at the vandalisation of the property of the Consulate General of India, San Francisco. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs said: "The US government was reminded of its basic obligation to protect and secure diplomatic representation. It was asked to take appropriate measures to prevent recurrence of such incidents. Our Embassy in Washington DC also conveyed our concerns to US State Department along similar lines."