External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar faced a security breach during his visit to the UK, with a pro-Khalistan extremist tearing the Indian flag. Following this incident, he defended India’s stance on Kashmir during discussions with UK officials, asserting no need for third-party mediation and stressing the importance of the return of territories under Pakistani occupation.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is currently on an official visit to the United Kingdom, which commenced on March 4 and is scheduled to conclude on March 9. During this visit, a pro-Khalistan extremist breached the minister’s security in London, running towards his car and tearing the Indian flag in the presence of law enforcement.
This incident took place when Mr. Jaishankar was departing the Chatham House venue following a discussion aimed at addressing various bilateral issues. The security breach occurred as the individual, taking advantage of a momentary lapse by police officers, aggressively approached the minister’s convoy while other protesters rallied in the background, shouting slogans.
In response to the escalating situation, police authorities eventually intervened, removing the individual and other extremists from the vicinity. Additional footage distributed by the news agency ANI depicted a larger group of pro-Khalistan extremists demonstrating outside Chatham House, brandishing flags and chanting slogans supportive of their cause.
While in the UK, Mr. Jaishankar engaged in fruitful discussions at Chevening House with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, covering a range of topics such as political cooperation, trade, education, and technology. During his scheduled discussion at Chatham House, he defended India’s stance on Kashmir, asserting that there is no necessity for third-party mediation. He highlighted India’s efforts to improve the situation in the region with initiatives like the abrogation of Article 370 and increasing economic development.
Mr. Jaishankar further stated, “I think the part we are waiting for is the return of the stolen part of Kashmir, which is under an illegal Pakistani occupation. When that’s done, I assure you, Kashmir solved.” His comments underscored India’s position regarding the unresolved aspects of the Kashmir issue, particularly in relation to the territories controlled by Pakistan.
The recent incident involving an extremist breaching S. Jaishankar’s security illustrates the challenges surrounding his diplomatic visit to the UK. Despite this provocation, Mr. Jaishankar emphasized India’s steadfast position on Kashmir, seeking a resolution that does not involve external interference. His discussions with UK officials further reinforced India’s commitment to addressing bilateral issues while advocating for national integrity.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
