Indian journalist attacked on Khalistan protest in America, envoy threatened

Washington: Khalistan supporters protesting outside the Indian Embassy here verbally threatened and physically assaulted a PTI journalist.

Press Trust of India’s US correspondent Lalit K Jha was covering pro-Khalistan protests when he was attacked. But the timely intervention of the US Secret Service and the local police saved him.

In a statement, the Indian Embassy here said, “We have witnessed disturbing scenes of abuse, intimidation and physical assault on a senior Indian journalist from the Press Trust of India while covering the so-called ‘Khalistan protests’ in Washington DC today. “

The statement read, “We understand the journalist was first verbally threatened, then physically assaulted, and fearing for her personal safety and well-being had to call law enforcement agencies, who responded immediately.” “

“Such activities underline the violent and anti-social nature of the so-called ‘Khalistani protesters’ and their supporters, who regularly indulge in violence and vandalism,” it said.

The Indian Mission thanked the law enforcement agencies for their prompt response in the matter.

The protesters not only stopped and pushed this PTI journalist by putting a Khalistan flag on his face in front of the camera, but also threatened him with dire consequences.

The reporter, fearing bodily harm, called 911 and ran to find a police van on the other side of the street for protection.

One of the protestors abused the reporter and was asking questions like you have to tell me what are you going to report?

The organizer backed down after the reporter complained to the police about the potentially harmful activities of the protesters.

After some time, two protesters came towards the reporters, who were standing near the Secret Service personnel. One of them told the Secret Service to tell the reporter to get off “my land” which is federal property.

He warned that if there is any violence and physical harm is done to the reporter, then he should not be blamed for it.

Immediately another protester hurled abuses against the reporter, used unparliamentary words and waved two Khalistan flags, which were in his hands, in such a way that his sticks hit the reporter’s left ear.

Secret Service personnel asked the reporter if he was okay. The Secret Service warned protesters that this should not be repeated, and called for additional reinforcements from police personnel.

The law enforcement officer told the protesters that this was public land, and that the reporter had a right to stand there and cover their protest.

In their speeches, the protesters repeatedly pointed fingers at the two journalists and used derogatory words against them.

When they prevented reporters from doing their jobs, a group of protesters filmed the reporter covering their protest, took pictures and asked provocative questions.

“This violence against @lalitkjha is outrageous and an attack on journalism. I condemn it in the strongest terms. Lalit is one of the fairest and most thoughtful journalists out there. Thank you Lalit and for our safety for the safety of diplomats and consulates Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna tweeted.

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