The United Kingdom has condemned the Khalistani protest that attempted to disrupt the visit of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in London. This incident escalated into a security breach on Wednesday, raising concerns about public safety and diplomatic protocols. As Jaishankar left the Chatham House venue following discussions, a protester aggressively approached his car and tore the Indian national flag in front of police officers.
Government Response to the Incident
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) promptly issued a statement. They stated, “We strongly condemn the incident that took place outside 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 FCDO reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring the security of all diplomatic visitors in line with international obligations.
India’s Strong Reaction
The Indian government reacted swiftly to the security breach, labeling the actions as “provocative activities.” The Ministry of External Affairs criticized the misuse of “democratic freedoms” by a small faction of “separatists and extremists.” They emphasized the expectation for the UK to uphold its diplomatic responsibilities in such cases. “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,” the MEA stated.
Eyewitness Accounts and Video Evidence
A video circulating online shows the protester rushing towards Jaishankar’s convoy while police seemed hesitant to intervene initially. The protester can be seen tearing the tricolor flag as others shouted slogans. UK Condemns Khalistani Protest.Fortunately, the police eventually moved in to apprehend him and other extremists involved.
Discussions on Bilateral Issues
Before the incident, Jaishankar engaged in extensive discussions with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House. They covered various topics, including strategic coordination, political cooperation, trade negotiations, and technology exchanges. During a discussion at Chatham House, Jaishankar addressed whether Prime Minister Narendra Modi could leverage former US President Donald Trump’s enthusiasm for peace to resolve the Kashmir issue with Pakistan.
UK Condemns Khalistani Protest.Jaishankar firmly rejected the need for third-party intervention. He reiterated that India had taken decisive steps to address the Kashmir situation, including the abrogation of Article 370 and fostering economic development in the region. “The part we are waiting for is the return of the stolen part of Kashmir, which is under illegal Pakistani occupation. When that’s done, I assure you, Kashmir solved,” he stated.
Conclusion
The UK condemns Khalistani protests that threaten public order and diplomatic visits. Both nations must ensure the protection of diplomatic engagements while respecting the right to peaceful assembly. For more updates on international relations, visit The Hans Bharat.
