The Centre on Thursday strongly condemned a security breach during External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar's visit to the United Kingdom, denouncing the actions of a "small group of separatists and extremists."
"We have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit of the External Affairs Minister to the UK," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.
"We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists," he said.
"We deplore the misuse of democratic freedom by such elements. We expect the host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations," Jaiswal added.
Also read: Khalistanis target Jaishankar, tear Indian flag in London
Jaishankar faced harassment and an attempted assault by Khalistani extremists in London late on Wednesday (local time, London), as he exited his vehicle after attending a discussion at Chatham House.
A video circulating on social media shows a protester running towards his vehicle and tearing the Indian national flag in front of London police officers, who appeared indifferent to the act of vandalism.
Pro-Khalistan supporters had gathered outside Chatham House, waving flags and voicing slogans as Dr Jaishankar participated in the event. The incident has sparked fresh concerns over the security of Indian diplomats and officials in the United Kingdom.
Jaishankar is currently on an official visit to the United Kingdom and Ireland from March 4 to 9 to further bolster India’s diplomatic ties with both nations.
During his visit, Jaishankar has held discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Foreign Secretary David Lammy, and several senior leaders.
On Tuesday, he met UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to discuss key areas such as the flow of talent and joint efforts in countering trafficking and extremism.
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