India on Thursday condemned a security breach during External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit to the United Kingdom. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed concern over the incident, which occurred when a Khalistani extremist rushed towards Jaishankar as he exited a discussion at Chatham House in London.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “We have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit of the external affairs minister to the UK.”
He added, “We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists. We deplore the misuse of democratic freedom by such elements. We expect the host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations.”
A group of extremists had staged a demonstration outside the venue, carrying flags and using loudspeakers to voice their slogans. The protest took place while Jaishankar participated in a discussion hosted by Chatham House on Wednesday.
During his visit to the UK, Jaishankar held talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and other senior officials.
On Tuesday, he met Home Secretary Yvette Cooper, where discussions covered topics such as the flow of talent and collaborative efforts between India and the UK to combat trafficking and extremism.
Following the meeting, Jaishankar posted on X, stating, “A good meeting with Home Secretary @YvetteCooperMP today in London. We discussed the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, and joint efforts in tackling trafficking and extremism.”
The extremist group involved in the protest had previously disrupted a cinema in Harrow, London, attempting to halt the screening of the Kangana Ranaut starrer film “Emergency.”
When asked about the disturbances at UK theatres, Jaiswal said, “We consistently raise concerns with the UK Government regarding incidents of violent protest and intimidation by anti-India elements. Freedom of speech and expression cannot be applied selectively, and those obstructing it must be held accountable.”
He further stated, “We hope that the UK side will take appropriate action against those responsible. Our High Commission in London remains in regular communication with our community members for their safety and welfare. We expect the UK side to take strong appropriate action in this matter.”
In 2023, the Indian High Commission in London was attacked by Khalistani supporters advocating for the secession of Punjab from India.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) had alleged that the attacks were in retaliation for actions taken by Punjab Police against Amritpal Singh, Chief of Waris Punjab De, aiming to influence the crackdown on the outfit and its leader.
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