Pro-Khalistan activists breached the security perimeter during Indian EAM S. Jaishankar’s visit to London, prompting condemnation from both the Indian government and the UK. The situation illustrates ongoing tensions surrounding pro-Khalistan protests, which have previously included violent incidents.
On March 7, 2025, pro-Khalistan activists attempted to breach the security perimeter during the departure of India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, from Chatham House in London. In response, the Indian government condemned the incident, emphasizing that such actions misappropriate democratic freedoms and urged the host government to fulfill its diplomatic responsibilities.
The UK government condemned the security breach as well, labeling attempts to intimidate or disrupt public events as wholly unacceptable. This confrontation occurred as Minister Jaishankar exited Chatham House, which led to a protester, brandishing an Indian flag, rushing toward his vehicle. While the individual was quickly restrained by police, other protesters displayed pro-Khalistan flags and chanted slogans.
Randhir Jaiswal, the official spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, noted, “We have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit… We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists.” He reiterated the importance of upholding democratic freedoms while calling for the host government to meet its diplomatic obligations.
A spokesperson from the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office responded, stating, “We strongly condemn the incident… While the UK upholds the right to peaceful protest, any attempts to intimidate, threaten, or disrupt public events are completely unacceptable.” They praised the Metropolitan Police for their swift action in addressing the situation.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that the protester was quickly removed without getting close to the minister, allowing him to leave without further incident. Several instances of pro-Khalistan protests have occurred previously, including a protest outside the Indian High Commission in London and an attack on the same premises in 2023.
The attempted security breach during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to the UK highlights significant concerns regarding the actions of pro-Khalistan activists and the implications for diplomatic security. Both the Indian and UK governments have condemned the incident, which underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding pro-Khalistan advocacy. The swift response from law enforcement was crucial in ensuring the minister’s safety and maintaining order during the protest events.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
