Vienna Convention on Consular Relations

Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 1963:

The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations of 1963 is an international treaty that defines a framework for consular relations between independent countries. A consul performs two functions:

• protecting the interests of their countrymen in their host country, and
• furthering the commercial and economic relations between the two countries

India’s Deputy Consul General Devyani Khobragade was arrested in New York for an alleged case of visa fraud and making false statements in connection with the visa application for an Indian national employee who was domestic helper in her home. The U.S. State Department clarified that Indian diplomat does not enjoy immunity from US laws. It is firm about its policies in support of the domestic workers.

Under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations(VCCR), the Indian Deputy Consul General enjoys immunity from the jurisdiction of US courts but only with respect to acts performed in the exercise of consular functions.