Khalistani supporters’ attack on San Francisco Indian consulate sparks outrage
Recent violent incidents targeted at the Indian consulate in San Francisco by Khalistani elements have been denounced by American lawmakers and various Indian-American community organizations.
They are advocating for a comprehensive investigation to ensure those responsible for these actions are held accountable. While they affirmed the right to protest as a cornerstone of American democracy, they also emphasized that violence is not a constitutionally protected right.
The lawmakers, in their Friday statements, also condemned threats made against Indian diplomats, including India’s Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu. They have urged the Biden administration to reinforce the security of foreign diplomats in the country.
A video that surfaced on July 2nd showcased the arson at the Indian consulate, showing a stance of ‘violence begets violence’. The video, alleged to be from Khalistan supporters, also included news articles about the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent member of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), who was killed in Canada last month.
Demand for investigation intensifies after attack by Khalistani elements on Indian diplomatic facility in San Francisco. Image courtesy of Image courtesy of BestGraphics_Com from Pixabay.
American politicians, including Congressman Frank Pallone, underscored the need for foreign diplomats to feel safe on American soil. They expressed hope that the administration would take steps to ensure their safety. In relation to the violent acts against diplomatic facilities, Congressman Gregory Meeks underscored that although the right to protest is protected by the US Constitution, violent actions cannot be tolerated. Other lawmakers like Jonathan Jackson echoed this sentiment, calling for an immediate investigation into the matter.
This incident marks the second attack on the Indian Consulate in San Francisco by Khalistani supporters within just a few months. The previous attack in March resulted in damage to the consulate and the temporary installation of Khalistani flags within the premises.
Several community organizations, including the Federation of Gujarati Association of USA and the Federation of Tamil Sangam of North America, expressed their support for the consulate. The National Council of Asian Indian Associations in Maryland also urged for those responsible for the arson attempt to be held accountable.
In response to threats issued against Indian diplomats by pro-Khalistan groups in the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK, India’s Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that violence should not be legitimized under the guise of freedom of expression. The safety of diplomats and the security of Indian missions abroad remain a priority for the Indian government.
Finally, organizations such as the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of New York and the Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora have issued statements condemning the attacks and offering their support to the Indian diplomatic facilities during these challenging times. They have also urged the global community to stand united against these acts of violence and for respective governments to ensure that those responsible are held accountable under the law.