In a recent statement, the UK High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis, has condemned the attack on India’s High Commission Office in London earlier this year. The attack was carried out by pro-Khalistan groups, who had gathered outside the building to protest against the Indian government’s handling of the farmer’s protests.
The incident took place on 26th January 2023, which is also celebrated as India’s Republic Day. The protesters, who were waving Khalistani flags and shouting slogans, had tried to force their way into the High Commission Office. They had even attempted to hoist a flag on the building, which was eventually removed by the police.
The attack was widely condemned by the Indian government and people, who had demanded an apology from the UK government. In response, the UK High Commissioner to India has expressed his regret over the incident and stated that he would have been equally angry if a British mission had been attacked in India.
In his statement, Alex Ellis said, “The UK government takes such incidents very seriously, and we are committed to protecting diplomatic missions and their staff. We condemn any attempt to breach the security of diplomatic premises, and we stand with India in condemning this attack.”
“I think there is no disagreement between [India and the U.K.] that what happened at the Indian High Commission was absolutely not okay,” Mr. Ellis said, speaking at the Ananta Centre in Delhi, referring to the protests on March 19, that led to an uproar in India, and a formal demarche from the Ministry of External Affairs. “It’s a symptom of an issue, which is Khalistani extremism. Now, we look at extremism not in relation to any one particular group of people. But overall, extremism is a risk in any country,” Mr. Ellis said.
He further added, “We have conveyed our regret to the Indian government and have assured them that we will take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents from happening in the future.”
The attack on India’s High Commission Office in London has sparked outrage and concern among the Indian community in the UK. Many have called for stricter measures to be taken against pro-Khalistan groups who promote violence and secessionist ideology.
The UK government has stated that it is committed to upholding the principles of free speech and peaceful protest, but will not tolerate any violent or unlawful behaviour. The police have arrested several individuals in connection with the attack, and investigations are ongoing.
The incident has highlighted the need for greater cooperation between the UK and India on security matters, particularly in light of the rising threat of terrorism and extremism. Both countries have expressed their commitment to working together to ensure the safety and security of their citizens and diplomatic missions.
In conclusion, the attack on India’s High Commission Office in London has been condemned by the UK High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis, and the UK government. The incident has raised concerns over the safety and security of diplomatic missions and the need for greater cooperation between the UK and India on security matters.
