LONDON, UK — India has expressed strong concerns over a security breach during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s official visit to London, which was marred by the actions of pro-Khalistani extremists. The incident occurred outside the Chatham House on March 6, 2025, when a group of protesters disrupted Jaishankar’s visit, leading to diplomatic tensions between India and the United Kingdom.
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During the visit, Khalistani extremists were seen chanting slogans and displaying aggression, with one individual notably tearing the Indian national flag in front of law enforcement officers. This individual was quickly detained by the police, but the incident has raised questions about diplomatic security and the handling of such protests by UK authorities.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has condemned the actions as “provocative” and called for the UK to meet its diplomatic responsibilities. An official statement from the Ministry emphasized the expectation for host countries to ensure the safety and respect for the symbols of foreign dignitaries.
The protest occurred during Jaishankar’s visit to discuss various bilateral issues, including extremism and international security, with UK officials. The minister also addressed questions relating to India’s stance on Kashmir, reiterating India’s position against third-party interventions in the region.
The protest and subsequent security breach have added to ongoing tensions between India and elements supporting the Khalistan movement in the UK. New Delhi has repeatedly raised concerns over the activities of such extremist groups abroad, which it views as threats to national unity and security.
In response to the incident, UK officials have expressed regret and assured a thorough review of the security arrangements. This event has further spotlighted the need for improved measures to protect foreign dignitaries and manage extremist protests effectively.
Jaishankar’s visit otherwise included significant discussions on bilateral trade, technology partnerships, and international policy alignment. However, the Khalistani disruption has overshadowed some of these diplomatic achievements, highlighting the persistent challenges in Indo-UK relations concerning diaspora politics and extremism.
As India continues to engage on the global stage, ensuring the safety and respect of its representatives remains a key priority, demanding collaborative efforts between nations to uphold diplomatic norms and security.
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