India strongly condemns security breach during Jaishankar’s UK visit

India on Thursday strongly condemned the security breach during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's visit to the UK, criticizing the "provocative activities" of separatists and extremists.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed disapproval over the misuse of democratic freedoms by these elements and urged the host government to uphold its diplomatic responsibilities.

"We have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit of EAM to the UK. We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists. We deplore the misuse of democratic freedoms by such elements. We expect the host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations," an MEA spokesperson stated.

The security breach occurred when pro-Khalistan protestors gathered outside Chatham House in London, where Jaishankar was participating in a discussion. The demonstrators held flags, used loudspeakers, and chanted slogans as the event took place inside.

Jaishankar's conversation with Bronwen Maddox, Director and Chief Executive of Chatham House, focused on India's foreign policy, regional dynamics, and global economic challenges.

This is not the first instance of such activities in the UK. In January, a group of pro-Khalistan extremists staged a protest outside the Indian High Commission in London. They had previously disrupted the screening of Kangana Ranaut's film Emergency in Harrow.

Addressing the disruptions, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, "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 emphasized, "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."

Notably, in 2023, the Indian High Commission in London was attacked by Khalistani supporters. According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), these attacks were carried out in retaliation for Punjab police's crackdown on Amritpal Singh, Chief of Waris Punjab De.

The NIA alleged that the perpetrators aimed to influence actions against the separatist outfit and its leader.