Indian Man Alleges Harassment By Indian Embassy in Italy; Mission Calls Claims ‘False, Fabricated’

Last Updated:April 23, 2026, 17:30 IST

Viral video triggers conflicting accounts between climate activist and Indian Embassy in Italy

An Indian-origin climate activist has alleged harassment by staff at the Indian Embassy in Rome, while the mission has denied the claims, calling them “false and fabricated".

The row began after videos shared by Jaydip Lakhankiya on Instagram showed him in an argument with a man believed to be an embassy staffer outside the premises.

Lakhankiya, who says he is undertaking a long-distance climate awareness walk from Malta to India, claimed he had visited the embassy as part of his journey and was filming outside the building when the situation escalated.

In his posts, he said he had been trying to secure an appointment with the embassy for four months but did not receive a response. On the day of the incident, he said he did not attempt to enter the premises and had only gone there to take a photograph as proof of his visit.

“I was not there to meet the embassy… I went there just to take a photo from outside so I have proof that I was there," he said, adding that he began recording when he felt the interaction was escalating.

He also alleged that an official approached him in a rude manner, questioned him, and asked him to stop recording.

The Indian Embassy in Italy, however, rejected the allegations and said it had taken note of the video circulating online.

“Claims being made by him are false and fabricated," the embassy said in a statement.

The mission stated that the individual had approached the embassy but refused to comply with basic entry requirements, including showing identification.

“He had come to the embassy and we were ready to meet him, but he refused to show his identity/passport. We follow standard security protocols for visitors," the statement said.

The embassy also said it remains committed to assisting Indian nationals and regularly engages with the Indian community.

The videos have since circulated widely on social media, with users reacting to the incident as two contrasting accounts continue to emerge.

News viral Indian Man Alleges Harassment By Indian Embassy in Italy; Mission Calls Claims ‘False, Fabricated’

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