India has condemned a security breach involving External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his UK visit. A pro-Khalistan protester approached his motorcade, prompting the Indian government to request the UK uphold its diplomatic responsibilities. This incident and similar past occurrences have heightened diplomatic tensions between India and the UK regarding pro-Khalistan activities.
India has formally condemned a security breach involving External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar during his visit to the UK. On Thursday, after a pro-Khalistan protester managed to breach a police barrier and approach Jaishankar’s motorcade, the Indian government called upon the UK to uphold its diplomatic responsibilities. This incident occurred on the second day of Jaishankar’s visit, following an engagement at Chatham House in London.
The protest featured a small group of pro-Khalistan demonstrators who shouted slogans against India and waved yellow flags while stationed behind metal barriers. As Jaishankar was leaving the venue to enter his vehicle, a tall man wielding an Indian flag broke through the barriers and confronted police before tearing the flag and being removed from the scene.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal denounced the actions of the protester, stating that it constituted a significant breach of security. Jaiswal criticized the “provocative activities” of pro-Khalistan individuals and noted, “We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists.” He further indicated that India expects the host country to meet its diplomatic obligations in these instances.
India has expressed concerns to the UK regarding pro-Khalistan activities and their implications for diplomatic relations. Past incidents have included violent protests, notably when a pro-Khalistan activist removed the Indian flag from the Indian High Commission in London during a demonstration in March 2023. Additionally, India has previously urged the UK to take action against anti-India elements interfering with cultural events, such as film screenings in January.
In summary, India strongly condemned the security breach involving EAM Jaishankar during his UK visit, labeling the actions of pro-Khalistan protesters as provocative. The Indian government anticipates the UK to fulfill its diplomatic duties in ensuring the safety and security of visiting officials. The ongoing tensions between India and pro-Khalistan elements raise concerns regarding diplomatic relations and the protection of Indian representatives abroad.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
