India Protests Vandalism of Embassy in Croatia, Demands Accountability

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India lodged a strong protest over trespassing and vandalism at its embassy in Zagreb.
The MEA blamed anti-India elements and demanded action from Croatian authorities.
The incident comes ahead of a high-profile EU leaders’ visit to New Delhi.

New Delhi: India has formally raised a strong diplomatic protest after its embassy in Croatia’s capital Zagreb was trespassed and vandalised, an incident New Delhi has attributed to anti-India elements. The India protests vandalism of embassy in Croatia at a sensitive diplomatic moment, days before senior European Union leaders are set to visit the country.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said it has taken up the matter forcefully with Croatian authorities, stressing the inviolability of diplomatic missions under international law.

MEA Cites Vienna Convention, Seeks Strict Action

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has demanded accountability and swift legal action against those responsible for the attack.

He underlined that diplomatic premises are protected under the Vienna Convention, which obligates host countries to ensure the safety and security of foreign missions.

“Accordingly, we have taken up the matter strongly with Croatian authorities, both in New Delhi and in Zagreb, and asked them to hold the perpetrators accountable for their reprehensible and illegal actions,” Jaiswal said.

Warning Against Anti-India Elements

The MEA also issued a sharp warning, noting that such acts reveal the intent and character of those involved.

“These actions speak of the character and motives of those behind them, and law enforcement authorities everywhere would do well to take note,” the spokesperson added, signalling India’s expectation of firm enforcement.

Reports Link Incident to Khalistani Activists

Earlier reports indicated that the Indian Embassy in Zagreb may have been targeted by Khalistani activists. While investigations are ongoing, Indian officials have made it clear that any threat to diplomatic missions will be treated as a serious violation of international norms.

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The embassy in Zagreb represents India’s official diplomatic presence in Croatia.

Incident Comes Ahead of Key EU-India Engagements

The timing of the incident has drawn attention, as it occurred just days before European Union leaders are scheduled to travel to New Delhi. The visiting leaders are expected to attend India’s Republic Day parade and co-chair the EU-India Summit.

Discussions during the visit are also expected to include progress on a long-pending free trade agreement between India and the European Union.

Indian officials stressed that ensuring the safety of diplomatic missions is essential for maintaining trust and stability in international relations, particularly during high-level engagements.