During S. Jaishankar’s visit to the UK, a pro-Khalistani extremist breached security and tore an Indian flag. The incident occurred while Jaishankar was leaving a discussion at Chatham House. He later defended India’s stance on Kashmir, rejecting third-party involvement and emphasizing the matter of territory occupied by Pakistan.
During his official visit to the United Kingdom from March 4 to March 9, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar faced a security breach in London. A pro-Khalistan extremist managed to approach Jaishankar’s vehicle and tear the Indian flag while police officers were present. This incident occurred as Jaishankar left a discussion at Chatham House, where a group of extremists attempted to disrupt his visit.
Footage circulated online shows the protester hastily advancing towards the minister’s convoy, taking advantage of the police’s brief hesitation. In the video, he is seen tearing the Indian tricolor while shouting slogans alongside his group from a distance. Eventually, police intervened, apprehending the protester and his fellow extremists.
The protests continued outside Chatham House, with additional videos depicting the same group waving flags and chanting pro-Khalistani slogans. As Jaishankar engaged in discussions with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, he addressed various bilateral issues such as strategic coordination and trade negotiations.
At Chatham House, Jaishankar strongly defended India’s position regarding Kashmir, dismissing the need for third-party involvement. He highlighted India’s initiatives, including the abrogation of Article 370, promotion of economic growth, and high voter turnout in elections in the union territory. Jaishankar reiterated that the unresolved issue pertains to the territory held illegally by Pakistan, stating, “I think the part we are waiting for is the return of the stolen part of Kashmir, which is under illegal Pakistani occupation. When that’s done, I assure you, Kashmir solved.”
The incident involving the pro-Khalistani extremist underscores ongoing tensions in the UK related to India’s sovereignty issues. During his visit, S. Jaishankar asserted India’s policy on Kashmir, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming occupied territory. His discussions with UK officials reflect a commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and addressing contentious geopolitical matters.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
