The breach of security involving External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar by Khalistani activists indicates that Britain has become a haven for anti-India groups. Britain’s reluctance to sever ties with Pakistan, and its historical support for radical movements, complicates its relationship with India. India should respond by halting Free Trade Agreement discussions and demanding reciprocity in diplomatic relations.
The recent breach of security during an event involving India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar by Khalistani activists has highlighted Britain’s status as a refuge for anti-India groups. While the UK authorities may show more restraint than their Canadian counterparts, the radical sentiments manifested within its borders pose a significant threat to India’s territorial integrity and relations with Britain.
The underlying reason for this troubling situation is Britain’s struggle to accept its diminished role following the end of its colonial empire in 1947. This sense of loss perhaps plays a role in its current relationships, particularly its historical affinity with Pakistan, which was facilitated by figures like Mohammed Ali Jinnah and Winston Churchill. This connection has developed into a lingering sympathy for Pakistan, affecting Britain’s diplomatic posture toward India.
In particular, the political backdrop in Britain remains concerning, as numerous MPs, including key members of the Keir Starmer Cabinet, openly participate in pro-Khalistan events. For instance, Preet Kaur Gill attended a Gurpurab event led by a pro-Khalistan group, raising questions about the seriousness of the UK’s commitment to addressing such radical associations.
Historical ties between Britain and Khalistani movements trace back to the Ghadar movement in the early 20th century, when British intelligence actively subverted nationalist efforts within the Indian diaspora. This historical involvement has led to a challenging dynamic, complicating Britain’s capacity to redefine its relationship with contemporary radical movements like Khalistan.
India must respond decisively to these provocations. Immediate cessation of Free Trade Agreement negotiations could serve as a strong signal to the UK about the consequences of its inaction regarding Khalistani threats. Furthermore, India should adopt a more reciprocal approach to diplomatic relations, mirroring the visa and security protocols that Britain employs, to communicate the necessity for a balanced partnership.
The time has arrived for India to firmly assert that diplomatic relations cannot persist on unequal terms. Britain must recognize that its colonial era allegiance to certain factions cannot dictate its modern foreign policy. If these relationships continue, the UK must acknowledge the repercussions of its colonial hangovers, which have lost their relevance as bargaining chips in current global diplomacy.
In summary, the security breach by Khalistani activists underscores the urgent need for India to reassess its diplomatic stance toward the UK. Britain’s enduring historical ties to anti-India sentiments, particularly through its connections to Pakistan and Khalistani factions, necessitate a more reciprocal relationship. By halting FTA negotiations and advocating for equitable treatment, India can compel the UK to reconsider its colonial legacies in contemporary politics, fostering a more stable and mutually respectful diplomatic engagement.
Original Source: www.firstpost.com
