SFJ Vandalizes Indian Embassy in Zagreb, Attempts Flag Replacement
In a brazen act of trespassing and vandalism, members of the terrorist group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) targeted the Indian embassy in Zagreb, Croatia. The incident involved an attempt to replace the Indian Tricolour with a so-called "Khalistan flag," drawing swift and strong condemnation from the Indian government.
Government Condemnation and Diplomatic Action
The Indian government, through the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), issued a statement on Thursday condemning the actions of what it termed "anti-India elements." The MEA emphasized that under the Vienna Convention, diplomatic premises are inviolable and must be protected by host nations. The statement highlighted the character and motives of those behind such acts, urging law enforcement authorities globally to take note.
Accordingly, India has taken up the matter strongly with Croatian authorities, both in New Delhi and Zagreb, demanding that the perpetrators be held accountable for their reprehensible and illegal actions. This diplomatic push underscores India's commitment to safeguarding its missions abroad and ensuring justice is served.
Details of the Incident and Broader Context
The separatists, looking to target India ahead of its Republic Day, not only tried to take down the Indian flag but also raised anti-India slogans during the incident. This marks one of the few occasions where such groups have targeted an Indian mission outside the "five eyes countries"—namely the US, Canada, UK, Australia, and New Zealand—where they are predominantly based.
In a statement, SFJ chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannun claimed the act was timed to coincide with the lead-up to Republic Day, boasting that it was the first such incident in the past 40 years. Meanwhile, Indian agencies have intercepted "26-26" chatter, referring to the terror group plotting potential attacks on Indian soil around this Republic Day, adding to security concerns.
India-Croatia Relations and Strategic Implications
This incident occurs as India has been actively working to ramp up its ties with Croatia, a member of the European Union. Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the country last year on his return from the G7 summit in Canada, highlighting the strategic importance of the relationship. The vandalism could pose challenges to bilateral cooperation, but India's firm response aims to reinforce diplomatic norms and security protocols.
The broader implications include heightened vigilance at Indian missions worldwide, especially as Republic Day approaches. The government's proactive stance in engaging Croatian authorities reflects a broader strategy to combat terrorism and separatism on international platforms, ensuring that such acts do not go unpunished.
