The Ljubljana incident comes against the backdrop of a series of attacks, vandalism and protests involving pro-Khalistan elements at or around Indian diplomatic missions in Western countries since March 2023.
In London that month, protesters chanting pro-Khalistan slogans pulled down the Indian national flag at the High Commission. The British government condemned the incident, while India summoned the British deputy high commissioner and sought an explanation over the security breach.
Days later, pro-Khalistan protesters attacked and damaged the Indian Consulate General in San Francisco, breaking through security barriers and damaging doors and windows. India lodged a strong protest with the US and reminded Washington of its obligation to protect Indian diplomatic premises.
Similar demonstrations and attempts to target Indian diplomatic establishments were reported in Canada and the US. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) subsequently identified 43 Khalistan supporters allegedly involved in violence targeting Indian missions, including incidents in London and San Francisco.
The issue has remained a source of friction between India and several Western governments. New Delhi has repeatedly sought stronger action against separatist groups it accuses of using foreign territory to propagate Khalistan and target Indian diplomatic personnel and missions.
India’s ties with Canada deteriorated sharply after then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged in September 2023 that there were potential links between Indian government agents and the killing of Khalistan advocate Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. India rejected the allegation. The dispute added a new layer to already strained ties over Ottawa’s handling of Khalistan-related activities.
For India, however, the immediate issue in Ljubljana is narrower and governed by an established diplomatic obligation. Article 22 of the Vienna Convention states that mission premises are inviolable and places a special duty on the receiving state to protect them against intrusion or damage and prevent disturbance of the mission’s peace or impairment of its dignity.
The Slovenian authorities will now be expected to investigate the incident and take appropriate action against those responsible.