US: Diaspora members assemble outside Indian consulate in San Francisco to show solidarity

More than 100 locals, including Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus, gathered outside the consulate to show their support. In order to emphasise their unity, the supporters were spotted hoisting both the American flag and the Indian tricolour. The diaspora also chanted ‘Vande Matram’ and ‘Bharat Mata ki Jai’ in loud voices during the gathering, reports ANI.

There were a few verbal altercations between the diaspora and Khalistan supporters who have been camping outside in tents for more than five days now, the news agency reported.

Meanwhile, the High Commissioner of Canada was summoned on Saturday to convey India's strong concern about the actions of 'separatist and extremist elements' against Indian diplomatic Mission and Consulates in Canada this week.

"The Government of India sought an explanation on how such elements were allowed, in the presence of police, to breach the security of our diplomatic Mission and Consulates," read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.

"The Government of Canada was reminded of its obligations under the Vienna Convention, and asked to arrest and prosecute the individuals who have already been identified as being involved in such acts," read the statement.

"It is expected that the Canadian Government will take all steps which are required to ensure the safety of our diplomats and security of our diplomatic premises so that they are able to fulfil their normal diplomatic functions," the statement said.

Suspected Khalistani supporters recently attacked Indian missions in the UK and the US following Punjab government's crackdown on Waris Punjab De and its chief Khalistan sympathiser Amritpal Singh.

Last Sunday, an event in Canada was cancelled due to security concerns after a violent protest by Khalistan supporters, reports NDTV.

The event had been organised at the Taj Park Convention Centre in Surrey to honour Sanjay Kumar Verma, the Indian envoy to Canada, while he was on his first visit to the west coast, the Indian news channel reported.