India Slams Security Breach as Khalistani Protester Targets EAM’s Convoy in London

LONDON:
A pro-Khalistani protester attempted to breach security as External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar was departing from Chatham House, a London-based think tank. The incident, which unfolded on Wednesday night, saw India issuing a sharp response, urging the UK government to “meet its diplomatic obligations” in ensuring the safety of visiting foreign dignitaries.

According to reports, a small group of pro-Khalistani demonstrators gathered outside the venue, shouting slogans and waving separatist flags. While the area was cordoned off by law enforcement officials, one of the protesters managed to break past the barricade and attempted to obstruct the minister’s convoy, also pulling at an Indian flag. The individual was immediately restrained by officers of the London Metropolitan Police and taken aside.

Reacting to the security breach, the UK government strongly denounced the incident. A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office stated, “We strongly condemn the incident that took place outside Chatham House. The Metropolitan Police acted swiftly, and we remain fully committed to ensuring the security of all diplomatic visitors in line with our international obligations.”

India, however, remained critical of the lapse. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal asserted, “We have seen the footage of this security breach. We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists. The misuse of democratic freedom by such elements is deplorable. We expect the host government to fully live up to its diplomatic commitments.”

Meanwhile, the London Metropolitan Police confirmed that when Jaishankar’s vehicle was stationary, a protester rushed in front of the car waving a flag. “He was quickly intercepted by officers and moved away. He did not get close to the minister, who left the area without further incident. There were no arrests,” a police official was quoted as saying.

The development drew strong reactions from Indian political circles. BJP national spokesperson RP Singh dismissed the demonstrators, stating, “There are about 100-150 such individuals across London who engage in these activities merely to seek attention. They have neither a base nor any support in India.”

Notably, Jaishankar had met UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper on Tuesday, where he raised concerns over issues such as extremism and illegal trafficking. “A good meeting with Home Secretary Yvette Cooper in London. We discussed the flow of talent, people-to-people exchanges, and joint efforts in tackling trafficking and extremism,” the minister posted on X.

This is not the first time pro-Khalistani elements have made their presence felt in London. In January, a group of extremists staged a protest outside the Indian High Commission. Prior to that, they had stormed a cinema in Harrow, attempting to disrupt the screening of the Kangana Ranaut-starrer ‘Emergency’.