India condemned a security breach involving External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his UK visit, where a pro-Khalistan protester broke through police barriers. The incident, which occurred after Jaishankar’s engagement at Chatham House, led India to express concerns to the UK government regarding its diplomatic responsibilities. The Ministry condemned the actions of the protesters, highlighting a long-standing issue with pro-Khalistan activities in the UK.
On Thursday, India officially condemned a security breach involving External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his visit to the UK. A pro-Khalistan protester managed to break through a police barrier and approach the minister’s motorcade, prompting Indian authorities to express their concerns to the UK government regarding diplomatic obligations. This incident occurred after Jaishankar’s engagement at Chatham House in London during his nearly week-long trip to the UK and Ireland.
Videos on social media showcased a gathering of pro-Khalistan protesters near Chatham House, where they displayed yellow flags and chanted slogans opposing India and the minister. As Jaishankar exited the venue to return to his vehicle, a tall man with an Indian flag managed to breach the police cordon and approached the motorcade, leading to a scuffle with police as he tore the flag before being escorted away.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal commented on the incident, labeling it as a significant security breach and denouncing the provocative actions of the pro-Khalistan elements. He stated, “We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists,” and communicated India’s expectation that the host government would fulfill its diplomatic responsibilities.
India has a history of lodging protests with the UK regarding the activities of pro-Khalistan groups, which include violent demonstrations outside the Indian High Commission in London. Such incidents have previously strained bilateral ties, as illustrated by a protest in March 2023 that saw a pro-Khalistan activist entering the Indian High Commission and pulling down the national flag. Additionally, in January, India called on the UK to address the disruptions caused by anti-India elements during the screening of a film.
This incident underscores India’s heightened sensitivity to the actions of pro-Khalistan protesters in the UK, as well as its expectations for the British government to uphold diplomatic standards. India’s appeals for UK action against these elements are fueled by a history of tensions that impact bilateral relations. The government’s condemnation of such provocations reflects a commitment to ensuring the safety and respect for its officials abroad.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
