Two serving U.S. lawmakers, Ro Khanna, a Democrat, and Michael Waltz, a Republican, have called for the protection of the Indian embassy and consulate from attack following the waves of attacks on the Indian embassy in San Francisco. A second attack was recently reported, raising concerns over the safety of the embassy and the diplomatic officers.
Expressing their concern, the duo called on the U.S. State Department to join forces with the law enforcement agencies in order to ensure the restoration of order and the apprehension of all those who were responsible for the attack.
In a joint statement made public by the duo, they bemoaned the personal attacks targeted at the Indian Consulate, the ambassador, and the officials.
The congressmen stated that they “strongly condemn the attempted arson and vandalism at the Indian Consulate in San Francisco and the posters circulating on social media with violent rhetoric aimed at the Indian diplomats, including Ambassador Sandhu.”
Earlier in March, an attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco was reported, which attracted wide condemnation. The condemnation did not deter the masterminds of the attack, who struck again.
On July 1, two unidentified men approached the entrance to the Indian consulate and set it ablaze. The incident raised questions about the lack of security at the consulate. Though the report says that the fire was put out on time and no one was hurt, there are fears of more attacks.
A group fighting for Khalistan has been identified as being behind the attacks. Gurpatwant Singh Pannum is the legal advisor and spokesperson for Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). He is also the consul general and founder of the SFJ.
In 2022, the Indian government officially designated him and his group terrorists. Despite the designation by the Indian government, the U.S. and most of its allies have refused to designate him as such.
Singh Pannun appeared in a recent viral video where he threatened the Indian government and vowed to continue to push for a separate state for Sikhs in Punjab. He also extolled the freedom of speech in the U.S., which supports his right to voice his grievances.
In their statement, the two U.S. lawmakers reminded Singh Pannun that “the right to free speech and freedom of expression for every American is not a license to vandalize property or incite violence.”
“Violence against diplomatic facilities is a criminal offense and will not be tolerated. We urge the State Department to coordinate with law enforcement in their investigation of the damage at the Indian Consulate expeditiously and hold those involved accountable,” the statement concluded.
It is expected that the call for security and safety by the two lawmakers will be adhered to. This is to preempt further attacks on the Indian consulate.
