Jaishankar demands accountability over 2023 Indian Consulate attack in San Francisco
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar called the 2023 attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco a “very serious matter” on Wednesday. He made this statement shortly after meeting newly appointed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Jaishankar emphasized that India expects accountability for the attack and wants those responsible to be held accountable.
Jaishankar was in the US for Donald Trump’s inauguration as the 47th President. During a press conference in Washington DC, he said, “The arson attack on our consulate in San Francisco is a very, very serious matter. We expect accountability and want those responsible to be held accountable.”
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco was attacked by a group of assailants in March 2023. The attackers trespassed, damaged public property, and attacked consulate officials. Some attempted to set the building on fire using inflammable substances. Protesters breached security barriers, raised pro-Khalistan slogans, and installed two Khalistani flags inside the consulate.
In July, Khalistani activists attacked the consulate again. They tried to burn the consulate down, but this time, no damage occurred inside the building. Despite this, it marked the second time that Khalistani activists targeted the San Francisco consulate.
The attacks prompted the highest levels of US national security and diplomatic authorities to take immediate action. They instructed agencies to investigate the incidents and enhance security measures. India made it clear that it expected more than sympathy. It demanded the arrest of the perpetrators and preventive actions to stop future attacks.
Jaishankar met Marco Rubio shortly after Donald Trump’s inauguration. The two also briefly discussed Bangladesh, but Jaishankar declined to elaborate, stating, “I don’t think it’s appropriate.” Earlier, Jaishankar had attended the first Quad ministerial meeting of Trump’s administration.
Additionally, Jaishankar raised concerns about long visa delays with Rubio. He stated that these delays harm business, tourism, and overall relations between the US and India. He made it clear that such delays undermine the relationship, especially when it takes so long for people to receive a visa.
