US reports most attacks on Indians abroad in 5 years, MEA data shows

The United States accounted for the highest number of reported attacks on Indian nationals living abroad over the past five years, according to data tabled in Parliament on Thursday. The figures, presented by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), show that 33 such incidents were reported from the US between 2021 and 2025.

The data, shared in response to a written question in Rajya Sabha, also revealed that the UAE saw 32 attacks on Indian nationals during the same period, closely following the US. The UK recorded 31 incidents, while Canada reported 30 cases.

Ireland, which has recently seen a spate of racist attacks, accounted for 24 cases of violence against Indians during this timeframe. The numbers highlight the challenges faced by Indian citizens in various parts of the world, even as the government maintains that their safety remains a top priority.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, responding to the question, said the safety and security of Indians abroad is the foremost priority of the government. He stated that Indian missions and posts remain vigilant and closely monitor any untoward incidents affecting Indian nationals abroad.

“Such incidents are immediately taken up with the authorities concerned of the host country to ensure that the cases are properly investigated and the perpetrators are punished as per their domestic laws,” Singh said.

The data, which covers a five-year period, provides a snapshot of reported attacks but may not reflect the full extent of incidents, as many cases go unreported or are resolved locally. The figures also do not specify the nature of the attacks, including whether they were racially motivated, which has been a growing concern in several countries.

Recent incidents in Ireland, including attacks on Indian students, have drawn particular attention. The Indian embassy in Dublin has been in touch with local authorities and affected individuals. Similar engagements have been reported in other countries where Indian nationals have faced violence.

India has one of the largest diasporas in the world, with millions of citizens living and working abroad. Incidents of violence or discrimination against them often become diplomatic issues, with Indian missions expected to provide support and follow up with host governments.

While the overall number of attacks relative to the size of the Indian population abroad remains small, the repeated occurrence of such incidents underscores the need for continued vigilance and bilateral cooperation on safety issues. The government has repeatedly advised Indian nationals to register with Indian missions and follow local safety guidelines.

The parliamentary response did not provide additional details on the outcomes of the reported cases or the actions taken by host countries. However, the minister’s statement reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice under the laws of the respective countries.