russian-consulate-vehicles-searched-in-wb-embassy-protests

The Russian Embassy in India has lodged a strong protest after vehicles belonging to its Consulate in Kolkata were stopped and searched by police on two consecutive days, alleging a breach of diplomatic protocol. The matter has been formally raised with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), along with written complaints sent to the State Home Department and senior officials of Kolkata Police.

 

According to the Consulate, the incidents took place on April 14 and April 16 at multiple locations across the city. One vehicle was stopped between Shyamaprasad Mukherjee Road and Rashbehari Avenue, while another was intercepted at the Chetla Road–Kalighat Road intersection. The Consulate claims that despite clearly visible diplomatic insignia, police personnel proceeded with the searches, suggesting awareness of the vehicle’s official status.

 

Citing the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the Embassy asserted that diplomatic vehicles are granted special protection and are generally exempt from searches. It termed the repeated stoppages within the same week a “grave breach of diplomatic etiquette.”

 

Police officials, however, pointed to heightened security measures across West Bengal in the run-up to the Assembly election. With intensified vehicle checks at key intersections, authorities have reportedly seized weapons and cash during routine inspections. Sources indicated that the Consulate’s vehicles were stopped as part of these ongoing security operations.

 

The Russian Consulate, however, maintained that even after identification, no exemption was granted. In its communication, it warned that any recurrence could negatively affect diplomatic relations and urged the MEA to intervene and issue necessary directives to the state administration.

 

The episode has triggered discussions within administrative and diplomatic circles over balancing stringent election-time security with adherence to international diplomatic norms. The Consulate is currently awaiting an official explanation from both central and state authorities.