Australia: Khalistani group disrupt India's Independence Day celebration

In Australia, a pro-Khalistan group caused disruption at an event to commemorate India's 79th Independence Day outside the Consul General in Melbourne. The crowd raised slogans with Khalistani flags during the event, but were confronted by Indians present. Indian nationals had peacefully gathered at the Consulate to celebrate India’s Independence Day when a group of Khalistani activists disrupted the occasion, creating a disturbance that interrupted the celebrations and prompted law enforcement to intervene, The Australia Today reported.The separatist group raised pro-Khalistan slogans. In a counter-move, Indians defended their stance by singing patriotic songs.

#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

Australian authorities reached the spot and prevented the situation from escalating into a physical confrontation. The tricolour was later hoisted at the consulate amid loud cheers of "Bharat Mata ki Jai" and "Vande Mataram". India has urged countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia, where such incidents are on the rise, not to give space to Khalistani extremists.

Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended his congratulations 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 78 years,” he said. “As a long-standing and consistent friend, Australia celebrates India’s success,” Albanese added, highlighting the strong relations between the two countries based on respect and friendship, and praising the contributions of the Indian-Australian community.