2002 attack on American cultural centre in Kolkata

The 2002 attack on the American Cultural Center in Kolkata, India, occurred on January 22, 2002, marking a significant incident in the context of rising tensions surrounding U.S.-India relations post-9/11. The center, a hub for cultural exchange and educational programs, was targeted by armed assailants affiliated with violent extremist groups, resulting in a deadly attack that claimed the lives of five individuals, including a police officer. The perpetrators, believed to be linked to the militant organization Lashkar-e-Taiba, aimed to demonstrate their opposition to American policies in the region. In response, the Indian government heightened security measures at foreign missions, while the incident raised concerns about the safety of cultural institutions and foreign nationals in India.