Why Did India Condemn Vandalism at Zagreb Embassy?

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Why Did India Condemn Vandalism at Zagreb Embassy?

Synopsis

India has strongly condemned the vandalism incident at its Zagreb Embassy carried out by anti-India elements, urging Croatian authorities to hold those responsible accountable. This incident highlights the diplomatic tensions and the importance of safeguarding diplomatic missions. Discover the implications of this event for India-Croatia relations and international diplomacy.

Key Takeaways

  • India strongly condemned the vandalism incident at its Embassy in Zagreb.
  • Calls for accountability from Croatian authorities.
  • Emphasized the inviolability of diplomatic premises under the Vienna Convention.
  • PM Modi's visit to Croatia highlighted strong bilateral relations and cooperation.
  • Both nations agreed to enhance collaboration in various sectors.

Zagreb/New Delhi, Jan 22 (NationPress) India has voiced its strong disapproval regarding the recent incident of trespassing and vandalism at its Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia, carried out by elements opposed to India. The Indian government has engaged with Croatian authorities, demanding accountability for the unacceptable and illegal actions of the perpetrators.

In an official statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, "We condemn the incident of trespassing and vandalism at our Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia by anti-India elements. According to the Vienna Convention, diplomatic premises are inviolable and must be safeguarded. We have taken this matter seriously with the Croatian authorities in both New Delhi and Zagreb, calling for accountability for these reprehensible acts."

The statement further emphasized, "Such actions reveal the motives and character of those responsible, and law enforcement agencies everywhere should take note. Some social media reports indicate that Khalistani activists were involved in vandalizing the Indian Embassy in Zagreb just before the Republic Day visit of European Union leaders to New Delhi."

During his visit to Zagreb last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed gratitude to Croatia for its support in India's fight against terrorism, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations during the historic visit—the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia.

PM Modi engaged in fruitful discussions with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic in Zagreb, examining the full range of India-Croatia relations and identifying areas to strengthen collaboration in sectors such as digital technologies, space, renewable energy, defense, maritime infrastructure, tourism, and hospitality.

Highlighting the shared values of democracy, rule of law, pluralism, and equality between India and Croatia, PM Modi acknowledged Croatia's steadfast support in combating cross-border terrorism. Both leaders also advocated for enhancing strategic ties between India and the EU.

"We agree that terrorism poses a threat to humanity and challenges the principles of democracy. We are immensely thankful to Prime Minister Plenkovic and the Croatian government for their condolences following the terrorist attack in India on April 22. In challenging times, the backing of our friendly nations is invaluable," PM Modi remarked after the delegation-level discussions in June 2025.

He further stated that both nations have committed to enhancing cooperation across various sectors to bolster bilateral trade and establish reliable supply chains.

"We will foster collaboration in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, information technology, clean technology, digital technology, renewable energy, and semiconductors. Additionally, cooperation in shipbuilding and cybersecurity will be amplified," PM Modi concluded.

Point of View

It is crucial to recognize that India stands firm in protecting its diplomatic missions. The vandalism at the embassy in Zagreb not only reflects a concerning trend of anti-India sentiments but also underscores the need for global cooperation in safeguarding diplomatic sanctity. The response from Croatian authorities will be pivotal in determining future diplomatic engagements.
NationPress
23/01/2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What led to India's condemnation of the incident?
India condemned the vandalism at its Zagreb Embassy by anti-India elements, citing the need for accountability under international diplomatic law.
How has Croatia responded to the incident?
India has raised the issue with Croatian authorities, urging them to hold the perpetrators accountable for their actions.
What does the Vienna Convention say about diplomatic premises?
The Vienna Convention states that diplomatic premises are inviolable and must be protected by host countries.
What was discussed between PM Modi and PM Plenkovic?
PM Modi and PM Plenkovic discussed enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on sectors like digital technologies, renewable energy, and combating terrorism.
What are the implications of this incident for India-Croatia relations?
This incident may strain diplomatic relations and highlights the importance of addressing anti-India sentiments and protecting diplomatic missions.
Nation Press