MEA Protests Vandalization of Indian National Flag by Pro-Khalistan Groups in Croatia

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India has officially condemned a serious security breach at its embassy in Zagreb, Croatia. On the night of 21 January 2026, protesters linked to the Khalistan movement removed the Indian national flag and replaced it with a Khalistani flag. They also spray-painted slogans on the embassy walls.

This incident has caused a major diplomatic row just days before India’s Republic Day celebrations and a high-profile visit from European Union leaders.

Security Breach in Zagreb: Inside the Midnight Vandalism

The attack in Zagreb shows that separatist groups are moving into new parts of Europe. Most past incidents occurred in the UK or Canada, but this one took place in a quiet EU capital. Video footage shows activists climbing over the embassy fence at night and targeting the Indian flag, which is a powerful symbol of the country.

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The vandals also painted ‘Khalistan Zindabad’ and ‘26/01 (India’s Republic Day)’, on the building. Following the incident, India has reminded Croatia of the Vienna Convention, an international law that says a host country must protect foreign embassies. While no one was hurt, the Indian government is angry that the building was left unprotected. The ease of the break-in has shocked many security experts.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs condemned the act in an official statement that read, “Such actions also speak of the character and motives of those behind them, and law enforcement authorities everywhere would do well to take note of them.”

Why Does Khalistani Vandalism in Croatia Matter Now?

Beyond causing offense in India, the Croatia incident likely aimed to disrupt India's relationship with the European Union. This breach happened at a time when top EU leaders were traveling to New Delhi. The attack was possibly timed to embarrass both India and its European partners on the world stage.

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This specific act of Khalistani vandalism in Croatia will change how Indian missions are protected. For years, Eastern Europe was seen as a safe and low-risk area. Now, India might ask every EU country to increase police presence around its offices. For the Indian community living in Croatia, this could mean more security checks and higher tensions. It also means that Indian and European intelligence agencies will have to work much closer together to track these groups across borders.

India is demanding that the Croatian police find and arrest those behind the crime. In the coming months, we might expect India to push for new security policies with the European Union. Both sides will likely focus on stopping extremist groups from operating in Europe.