A far-right activist was removed by police after heckling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shortly after his arrival in Melbourne for the third India-Australia Annual Leaders' Summit. The incident occurred Wednesday night as Prime Minister Modi arrived at a hotel.
Footage shared on social media shows Hugo Lennon, who goes by the online handle 'Auspill,' shouting anti-immigration slogans from a floor above the hotel lobby. Lennon was heard saying, "F*** Modi. This is Australia. No more Indians. We don't want any more migration. This country is for Australians." Police intervened and escorted Lennon from the venue.
Lennon has been identified as a key figure in last year's anti-immigration 'March for Australia' protests. He is also the grandson of Tony Lennon, former chairman of the real estate development company Peet Limited.
One commentator, identified as 'GoWokeGoBroke,' criticized Lennon's actions, stating, "Swearing and screaming isn't going to stop immigration. He's just an attention seeker who embarrasses himself and can't produce an intelligent argument."
Prime Minister Modi was formally greeted upon his arrival in Melbourne by Housing Minister Clare O'Neil and Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan. Modi expressed his optimism for the visit on Twitter, stating, "This visit will add vigour to the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership."
During his three-day visit, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to meet with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Governor-General Sam Mostyn. He will also attend the Australia-India Annual Leaders’ Summit on Thursday morning. A large rally, "Melbourne Meets Modi," is planned for later at Marvel Stadium, with organizers noting tickets sold out rapidly.
Anti-immigration protesters, including Lennon, have indicated plans to disrupt the rally. Modi is also expected to visit the Melbourne Cricket Ground with Albanese on Friday before traveling to New Zealand.
Bilateral discussions between Modi and Albanese are expected to focus on increased tertiary study arrangements, information sharing, and naval exercises, reflecting Australia's long-term strategic outlook. The visit occurs against the backdrop of recent Chinese missile tests in the South Pacific, which could prompt both India and Australia to strengthen their trade ties given their reliance on China for commerce.
This marks Prime Minister Modi's third official visit to Australia since 2014. His previous visits have drawn large crowds, with Australian Prime Minister Albanese having previously praised Modi's energy during a 2023 event in Sydney.