A group of pro-Khalistan supporters attempted to heckle External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar in London while he was leaving after a discussion at Chatham House. In a shocking incident, one individual was seen rushing toward Jaishankar’s car and tearing the Indian national flag, sparking condemnation from India.
A video shared by The Squadron on social media platform X, recorded the disturbing moment outside the Chatham House, where Jaishankar had participated in a discussion.
India condemns security breach
India on Thursday expressed strong disapproval over the security breach during the External Affairs (EAM) S Jaishankar’s visit to the UK, criticising the ‘’provocative actions’’ of separatist and extremist elements.
In a statement released by the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson stating that India laments the misuse of democratic freedoms by such groups and expects the host government to maintain its diplomatic responsibilities in such conditions.
‘’We have seen the footage of a security breach during the EAM’s visit to the UK. We strongly condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists. Such elements are misusing democratic freedoms and we hope the host government to fully adhere to its diplomatic allegations in these matters,’’ the MEA spokesperson stated.
The video also shows a group of Khalistani protestors outside the venue, waving separatist flags and chanting pro Khalistani slogans through loudspeakers. The demonstrators were standing behind barricades and were closely monitored by a strong police presence outside the venue on Wednesday night. However, one of them broke the barricade, pulling an Indian flag and trying to block the minister’s vehicle before Metropolitan Police officers quickly stopped him. According to the PTI report, no arrest has been made so far.
Growing incidents of Khalistani activities
This incident is a part of an escalating pro-Khalistan demonstrations in the UK. According to an ANI report, in January 2024, separatist elements gathered outside the Indian High Commission in London, trying to create unrest. Khalistani supporters have also entered UK cinemas and tried to stop the screening of Kangana Ranaut’s film Emergency.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has continuously urged the UK to take strong action against extremist groups. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated earlier, “Freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively, and those restricting it must be held accountable.”
Despite these disruptions, Jaishankar continued his diplomatic talks, holding discussions with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Foreign secretary David Lammy, and Home Secretary Yvette Cooper.
Posting on his official account on X, Jaishankar wrote, ‘’A good meeting with Home Secretary @YvetteCooperMP today in London. We discussed the flow of talent, people-to people exchanges, and joint efforts in handling trafficking and extremism.’’
(With inputs from ANI and PTI)