In recent years, the United Kingdom has seen a significant rise in the Khalistani movement, leading to multiple instances of vandalism targeting Hindu temples and Indian institutionsread moreIndian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday (March 6) summoned UK Chargé D’ Affaires Christina Scott after S Jaishankar’s security was breached by a Khalistani extremist in London earlier in the day. The Indian foreign minister was leaving in a car after attending an event at the Chatham House think tank when his security was endangered by the extremist.The MEA summon follows a statement of condemnation by the UK government over Jaishankar’s security breach.AdvertisementWhile responding to the incident, a spokesperson for the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said, “We strongly condemn the incident that took place outside the Chatham House yesterday during the External Affairs Minister’s visit to the UK. While the UK upholds the right to peaceful protest, any attempts to intimidate, threaten, or disrupt public events are completely unacceptable. The Metropolitan Police acted swiftly to address the situation, and we remain fully committed to ensuring the security of all our diplomatic visitors, in line with our international obligations.”Earlier,
the Indian government also condemned the incident, calling it “unacceptable” and “misuse of democratic freedoms by separatists”.“We have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit of EAM to the UK. We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists. We deplore the misuse of democratic freedoms by such elements. We expect the host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations,” said a spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs.Pro-Khalistan supporters staged a protest outside the venue where Jaishankar was invited, during which a man was seen approaching the foreign affairs minister’s vehicle and tearing India’s national flag. Despite their heavy presence, London police officers appeared unresponsive to the act of vandalism.During his visit, the EAM is set to hold talks with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy. Given the Thursday incident, the issue of extremism and especially the rise of the pro-Khalistani movement in the UK and other nations are expected to be discussed.AdvertisementIn recent years, the United Kingdom has seen a significant rise in the Khalistani movement, leading to multiple instances of vandalism targeting Hindu temples and Indian institutions. Meanwhile, Jaishankar’s visit focused on strengthening the India-UK comprehensive strategic partnership, including trade, health, education, cultural ties, and defence cooperation.(With inputs from agencies)More from India
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MEA summons top UK diplomat after Khalistani extremist breaches Jaishankar’s security in London
