Due to protests organized by Khalistan supporters, the security presence outside the Indian Embassy has been significantly strengthened. A substantial contingent of police personnel was deployed outside the embassy premises, as captured in a video posted by the news agency ANI.
#WATCH | USA: Security increased outside the Indian Embassy as Khalistanis plan a protest outside the Indian Mission in Washington DC. pic.twitter.com/dpcEN2lKrU
— ANI (@ANI) August 15, 2023
This increased security response followed plans by Pro-Khalistan groups to hold protests outside the Indian Embassy in Washington DC in conjunction with the scheduled Independence Day celebrations. Despite a small group gathering at the embassy, they were outnumbered by a substantial assembly of security personnel, including members of the US Park Police, US Secret Service, and Washington DC Police.
In an effort to commemorate Independence Day, the Indian Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, raised the national flag at India House, his official residence. The event was attended by a large number of Indian Americans, symbolizing their deep-rooted connection with their homeland.
However, this occurrence is not the first instance of Khalistan supporters targeting Indian missions. Similar incidents have been reported in countries like the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. In a notable incident in July, a group of pro-Khalistan supporters reportedly attempted to set fire to the Indian consulate in San Francisco. While the attack caused no major damage or injuries, authorities swiftly responded to suppress the fire and initiate investigations. An official termed the incident a “terror act” and confirmed the continued investigation by local San Francisco police, diplomatic security personnel, and state and federal authorities.
Vandalism by Khalistani supporters has also been reported earlier this year in March when extremist elements breached makeshift security barriers erected by the SF city police and installed Khalistani flags within the premises of the Indian Consulate.
Despite these challenges, Indian diplomatic missions and officials continue to uphold their duties and national events, underscoring their commitment to their responsibilities even in the face of disruptive incidents.