India Calls Out UK Over ‘Unacceptable’ Security Lapse During Indian E.A Minister Jaishankar’s Visit
- England International Affairs
Shreya Naskar- 0
- 3 minutes read
The recent visit of India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, to the United Kingdom witnessed a significant security breach, as pro-Khalistan protesters staged demonstrations outside Chatham House, a prominent think tank where Jaishankar was participating in a discussion. This incident has led to a strong response from both the Indian and UK governments, highlighting diplomatic concerns and security responsibilities. A group of separatist pro-Khalistan protesters gathered outside the venue, waving flags, using loudspeakers, and chanting slogans. Reports suggest that the protestors attempted to disrupt the event, showing irrational and aggressive behaviour. This incident follows a pattern of similar demonstrations in London by Khalistan extremists, including protests at the Indian High Commission and attempts to stop the screening of the Bollywood film Emergency.
The Indian government condemned the protests, categorizing them as “proactive activities” by “separatists and extremists” and warning against the “misuse of democratic freedoms.” New Delhi issued a direct message to the UK government, emphasizing that “host governments must fully live up to their diplomatic obligations.” The Indian authorities expressed serious concerns over the security lapse and urged the UK to take appropriate measures to prevent such incidents in the future. Reacting to the incident, the UK government reaffirmed its commitment to upholding public order and diplomatic security. A statement issued by UK officials declared, “Any attempts to intimidate, threaten, or disrupt public events are completely unacceptable.” London police eventually removed the protesters from the scene, though initial hesitation was observed in taking swift action against the demonstrators.
This is not the first time pro-Khalistan extremists have attempted to disrupt Indian diplomatic activities in the UK. In early January, a group of extremists staged a protest outside the Indian High Commission in London. In 2023, similar demonstrations saw demonstrators forcibly removing the Indian national flag from the High Commission’s premises. Analysts at the Observer Research Foundation have noted that while Khalistan extremists constitute a fringe group within the Sikh diaspora, their aggressive tactics create the illusion of broader support. The repeated incidents have raised serious concerns regarding the UK’s ability to ensure the security of high-ranking foreign officials. The question arises: How can the UK be so casual about the security of India’s External Affairs Minister? Should a threat to a senior Indian diplomat be considered a threat to India itself?
The incident has reignited discussions on the safety of Indian diplomats abroad and the responsibility of host governments to ensure their security. With Jaishankar’s visit concluding on March 9, the diplomatic strain caused by this event remains a point of concern for both nations. India’s expectations from the UK on this issue remain clear: stronger security measures and strict action against extremist elements that misuse democratic freedoms for separatist agendas.