New Delhi Expresses Outrage Over Khalistani Supporter’s Attempt to Disrupt Minister’s Visit

 India has strongly condemned a security breach involving its Foreign Minister, S. Jaishankar, during his visit to London. The incident, which took place outside Chatham House, a well-known British think tank, saw a pro-Khalistan supporter rushing towards Jaishankar’s car while shouting slogans and tearing an Indian flag.

India Summons UK Diplomat Over Security Failure

Following the breach, New Delhi swiftly summoned Britain’s Deputy High Commissioner and lodged a formal protest. In its official statement, the Indian government condemned the "provocative activities of a small group of separatists and extremists" and accused them of misusing democratic freedoms. It called upon the UK government to fulfill its diplomatic obligations and ensure the safety of Indian officials.

The Indian government has also questioned the lack of preventive measures, highlighting that red flags were ignored. The presence of a Khalistani crowd near the venue was an obvious indicator of potential disruption, yet British authorities failed to secure the area adequately.

UK’s Response and Past Khalistani Incidents

The UK government has labeled the incident as "completely unacceptable," reiterating that public events should not be disrupted or threatened. However, India remains unconvinced, pointing out that Khalistani elements have repeatedly targeted Indian missions in the UK. In January, pro-Khalistan supporters gathered outside the Indian High Commission in London. In 2023, they went a step further by attacking the High Commission, desecrating the Indian flag, and vandalizing property.

Concerns Over UK’s Approach to Khalistani Extremists

Indian authorities argue that Britain’s approach to the Khalistan movement is a systemic issue. Unlike India, which takes strict security measures for visiting dignitaries, the UK does not seem to perceive Khalistani groups as a security threat. Some in India believe that Britain views these groups as part of a "freedom of expression" debate or even as a pressure point in diplomatic negotiations with New Delhi.

India has cited examples of recent high-profile visits to the country, including those by former U.S. President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British ex-Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. All these visits occurred without major security lapses, raising the question of why Britain has struggled to ensure similar protection for Indian leaders.

A Call for Stronger Diplomatic Action

While the UK has taken steps to improve bilateral relations, including hosting Jaishankar at the foreign secretary’s residence and arranging meetings with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, India insists that security should be the priority. New Delhi has urged London to take concrete action against extremist elements rather than focus solely on trade deals and diplomatic retreats.

This latest incident underscores the growing concern over pro-Khalistan activities in Western countries and their potential impact on India’s diplomatic engagements. New Delhi is making it clear: ensuring the safety of Indian officials abroad is not just a diplomatic courtesy but a fundamental necessity for meaningful bilateral relations.