ANI
New Delhi: In a move to progress the investigation into the attack on the Indian consulate in San Francisco in July this year, India has formally requested evidence from US authorities under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT).
This appeal comes amid the ongoing National Investigation Agency (NIA) probe into the incident.
A total of 45 individuals have been identified in connection with the attack through crowd-sourcing efforts, according to sources close to the matter. The MLAT, a bilateral agreement facilitating the exchange of information and evidence in criminal matters between countries, is being invoked to enhance cooperation in the investigation.
The incident, occurring in July, involved a group of Khalistan extremists attempting to set fire to the Indian consulate in San Francisco. Local authorities, including the San Francisco police department, diplomatic security personnel, and state and federal authorities, were promptly informed, leading to a comprehensive investigation.
The attack drew strong condemnation from the US, categorising it as a "criminal offence." Matthew Miller, the US State Department spokesperson, expressed the country's disapproval, stating, "Vandalism or violence against diplomatic facilities or foreign diplomats in the US is a criminal offence."
This is not the first instance of the Indian Consulate in San Francisco facing threats. In March, suspected Khalistani elements targeted the consulate, with a video circulating on social media showing pro-Khalistani protestors gathering outside the mission, expressing support for leader Amritpal Singh and harassing consulate staff.
The formal request under MLAT marks a strategic move by India to collaborate with the US in bringing clarity to the circumstances surrounding the attack, emphasising the commitment to maintaining diplomatic integrity and addressing criminal activities against diplomatic missions.
(With ANI Inputs)
Copyright © 2025 Top Indian News
