Jaishankar's security breach highlights UK's leniency toward disruptive forces: India
What's the story
India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has lodged its protest over a recent security breach during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's visit to the UK.
A pro-Khalistan protester attempted to block Jaishankar's convoy outside Chatham House in London.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said this reveals the "license accorded to such forces" and their "intimidation, threats, and other actions aimed at impeding our legitimate diplomatic activities in the UK."
Diplomatic response
India expressed its 'deep concern' to UK authorities
Jaiswal added that there is a "larger context" to the development.
"While we have noted the statement issued by the UK Foreign Office on the matter, our view of its sincerity would depend on the action taken against culprits on this and previous occasions," he said.
Following the incident, a Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) spokesperson on Thursday termed attempts to "intimidate, threaten, or disrupt" public events as "completely unacceptable."
Official condemnation
UK government condemned the security breach
The spokesperson reiterated their commitment to ensuring the security of all diplomatic visitors in line with international obligations.
This statement reaffirms Britain's commitment to providing secure environments for foreign dignitaries within its borders.
The same day, India had also summoned UK Chargé D'Affaires Christina Scott at the British High Commission.
As per reports, she was called to the MEA and was served a démarche—a petition or protest presented through diplomatic channels.
Incident details
Video footage captured the security breach
Video footage of the incident shows the man with an Indian flag running toward Jaishankar's car.
Despite police barricading, he managed to get past it and approach the motorcade.
He even jostled with police personnel and stood in front of the vehicle before tearing the flag.
He was eventually taken away by the police.
The protest saw people shouting pro-Khalistani slogans and waving flags.
The incident happened on March 5 during Jaishankar's nearly week-long visit to the UK and Ireland.