Khalistani Activists Attempt to Set Indian Consulate on Fire

July 5, 2023, New Delhi – Khalistani activists allegedly attempted to set fire to the Indian consulate in San Francisco, prompting swift condemnation from the United States State Department. The incident occurred on Sunday and was captured in a video posted by Khalistan supporters themselves. Fortunately, the local fire department extinguished the blaze quickly, and no injuries were reported. The consulate did not suffer any significant damage.

Canada Reassures India of Commitment to Diplomatic Safety

Neighbouring Canada has sought to reassure India regarding the safety of its diplomats. Recently, Sikh separatist groups threatened Indian diplomats stationed in Ottawa and Vancouver. In response, Canada affirmed its commitment to the Vienna Conventions, which uphold the safety of diplomats. The Indian government summoned the Canadian high commissioner in New Delhi to address the issue of Khalistani separatists endangering the security of Indian diplomats based in Canada. The separatists had circulated posters featuring photographs of the diplomats, labeling them as “Faces of Shaheed Nijjar’s Killers.” It is worth noting that Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the leader of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force, was killed outside a gurdwara in Canada in June. The Indian government expects Canada to take appropriate measures to secure Indian diplomatic premises, especially in Ottawa and Vancouver, on July 8, when Khalistani activists have planned rallies outside the missions.

US State Department Strongly Condemns the Incident

The US State Department expressed strong condemnation of the reported vandalism and attempted arson at the Indian Consulate in San Francisco. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller took to Twitter to denounce the incident, emphasizing that any acts of violence or vandalism against diplomatic facilities or foreign diplomats in the United States are considered criminal offenses. India has also raised the issue of the arson attack with the US government, urging them to address the matter.

Conclusion

The attempted arson attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco by Khalistani activists has drawn condemnation from both the United States and India. The incident, captured in a video posted by the activists themselves, was swiftly addressed by the local fire department, preventing any injuries or significant damage. Meanwhile, Canada has assured India of its commitment to the safety of diplomats stationed in Ottawa and Vancouver, following threats from Sikh separatist groups. As tensions remain high, both countries are working together to ensure the security of Indian diplomatic premises.