Pro-Khalistani Protest Disrupts India’s 79th Independence Day Event in Melbourne

Pro-Khalistani individuals disrupted an event outside the Consul General’s office in Melbourne, Australia, held to mark India’s 79th Independence Day.

The group shouted slogans and caused a commotion at the consulate, drawing outrage from Indian nationals present at the spot.

According to local media, Indian community members had gathered peacefully to celebrate the occasion when some Khalistani agitators interrupted the event.

A video, now viral on social media, shows police attempting to separate the two groups to prevent any physical confrontation as tempers flared.

The incident comes shortly after a Hindu temple in Melbourne was vandalised. Reports say racist slurs were painted in red graffiti on the Swaminarayan Temple in Boronia.

Makrand Bhagwat, head of the Hindu Council of Australia (Victoria Chapter), condemned the act, saying, “Our temple is meant to be a sanctuary of peace, devotion and unity. Seeing it vandalised felt like an attack on our identity, our right to worship and freedom of religion.”

Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended greetings to India on its 79th Independence Day.

“As the Tiranga flies proudly around the world, Indians can reflect with joy on all their nation has achieved in the past 78 years,” he said.

“As a long-standing and consistent friend, Australia celebrates India’s success,” Albanese added, praising the strong bonds between the two nations built on mutual respect and friendship, and appreciating the contributions of the Indian-Australian community.

#BreakingNews - Disturbance outside the Consul General of India in Melbourne!

Khalistani 'goons' reportedly created a ruckus, disrupting the premises and raising tensions.

🇮🇳 Indians had gathered to peacefully celebrate India’s 79th Independence Day, but the celebrations were… pic.twitter.com/rnjC0i6TT8

— The Australia Today (@TheAusToday) August 14, 2025