India expressed deep concern over a security breach that occurred during foreign minister S Jaishankar’s official visit to the United Kingdom on Thursday.
A pro-Khalistan activist managed to breach the security barricades and tore the Indian flag in front of the Indian minister’s convoy. The act was captured on video and has since gone viral online.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) strongly condemned the actions of the Khalistani activist. "We have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit of the External Affairs Minister to the UK," the MEA statement said. "We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists."
India also denounced the misuse of democratic freedoms by such elements, stressing that these actions undermine the spirit of peaceful discourse. "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," the MEA added.
The security breach occurred on Wednesday evening, as Jaishankar was leaving the Chatham House in London after a scheduled discussion. A man ran toward the minister’s car, taking advantage of a brief moment when the police officers appeared hesitant.
In a shocking display of defiance, the protester tore the Indian tricolour in front of the convoy while others in his group shouted pro-Khalistan slogans at a distance.
The police quickly intervened, escorting the individual and others away from the scene.
A separate video shared by ANI news agency showed the group of pro-Khalistan supporters protesting outside the Chatham House venue, waving flags and chanting their slogans.
S Jaishankar's UK visit began on March 4 and is scheduled to conclude on March 9. The minister's trip aims to strengthen bilateral relations between India and the UK, with discussions focusing on strategic coordination, trade, technology, education, and people-to-people exchanges.
During his visit, Jaishankar also addressed sensitive topics, including the Kashmir issue. At a session on Wednesday at Chatham House, he firmly defended India’s position on Kashmir, rejecting any third-party mediation in the region. Jaishankar highlighted India's efforts to address the situation, including the abrogation of Article 370, economic development, and high voter turnout in recent elections.–Hindustan Times