Seattle City Council Member Kshama Sawant recently faced a troubling incident at the Indian consulate. After her emergency visa application was denied, she reported being physically assaulted by consulate staff while seeking an explanation.
On February 6, 2025, Sawant, along with her political group “Workers Strike Back,” visited the consulate to inquire about the rejection of her visa, which she needed to see her sick mother in Bengaluru. She claimed that the consulate staff threatened them and attempted to take their phones.
As they tried to leave, Sawant alleged that a consulate employee grabbed a member of her team while trying to seize her phone. A scuffle ensued, with Sawant saying another staff member physically confronted her as she held the door open for her group.
After the incident, the Indian consulate tweeted that local authorities had to be called due to an “unauthorized entry” after hours. They indicated that action might be taken against Sawant and her associates, who they claimed refused to leave when asked.
Sawant stated that her visa was denied because her name appeared on a “rejection list.” This list may be linked to her past political actions, including her criticisms of the Indian government’s policies, particularly regarding citizenship laws that have faced significant opposition.
This isn’t the first time Sawant has struggled with visa issues. She previously had two applications turned down in 2024. She has called on opposition parties in India to unite against policies that prevent citizens from visiting their families abroad, describing these actions as inhumane.
The situation sheds light on the complexities of international travel for political figures and raises questions about the implications of political dissent on personal matters.
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