The Centre has expressed strong disapproval regarding a security incident that occurred during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's trip to the United Kingdom, criticizing the actions of a "small group of separatists and extremists." Pro-Khalistan demonstrators gathered outside Chatham House in London while Jaishankar was participating in a discussion on Wednesday. The protesters, equipped with flags and loudspeakers, chanted slogans as the minister conducted his talks inside.
"We have observed the footage showing a security breach during the EAM's visit to the UK. We condemn the provocative actions of this small group of separatists and extremists. We regret the exploitation of democratic freedoms by such groups. We anticipate that the host government will fully uphold their diplomatic responsibilities in such situations," stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Jaishankar pressed on with his diplomatic activities despite the protests, holding discussions with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and other prominent officials. During a meeting with UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on Tuesday, he addressed important topics such as talent mobility and collaborative initiatives to combat trafficking and extremism. This isn't the first instance of Khalistani groups protesting in London; back in January, pro-Khalistan extremists organized a demonstration outside the Indian High Commission.
In another event, Khalistani groups invaded a cinema in Harrow, London, trying to stop the showing of 'Emergency', a film featuring BJP's Kangana Ranaut. In response to these disturbances, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India's worries regarding violent protests and intimidation from "anti-India" groups in the UK.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)