11 April: The Indian Consulate in Melbourne has once again been defaced in a disturbing act of vandalism, prompting the Indian High Commission in Canberra to formally raise the matter with Australian authorities on Friday.
According to The Australia Today, the Melbourne Consulate has been the site of repeated provocations in recent years, often coinciding with periods of heightened international tension. The latest incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday, when graffiti was discovered at the front entrance of the diplomatic premises.
Victoria Police confirmed that officers believe the vandalism took place overnight, between Wednesday and Thursday. “An investigation into the damage remains ongoing,” a police spokesperson said, adding that no suspects have yet been identified.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the Indian High Commission said,
“The incident of defacing at the premises of the Consulate General of India in Melbourne by miscreants has been raised with Australian authorities. All necessary steps are being taken to ensure the safety and security of Indian diplomatic and consular premises and personnel in the country.”
Authorities have urged members of the public to come forward with any information that may assist in the investigation.
The incident has reignited growing concerns within the Indian-Australian community, which has previously expressed alarm over a pattern of targeted vandalism affecting both Hindu temples and Indian diplomatic missions across Melbourne.
“This isn’t just about graffiti—it’s a clear act of intimidation directed at our community,” one Indian-Australian resident told the media. “Repeated attacks on our places of worship and cultural institutions are emotionally exhausting and deeply troubling.”
The Victorian government, under Premier Jacinta Allan, has recently passed new anti-vilification laws aimed at enhancing penalties for hate-motivated or religiously biased actions. However, community leaders continue to express frustration over what they see as inconsistent enforcement and delayed responses in cases involving the Indian community.
“This isn’t about politics,” a community member said. “It’s about safety, respect, and equal protection under the law.”
As the investigation continues, members of the Indian diaspora are calling for swift action to prevent further incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
