Alex Ellis, the United Kingdom’s High Commissioner to India, has strongly condemned the recent incident in Glasgow where the Indian High Commissioner, Vikram Dorwaiswami, was blocked from entering a gurdwara by pro-Khalistan extremists. Ellis emphasized that such an incident “absolutely should not have happened” and expressed his concerns regarding similar actions in London earlier this year.
Protesters had gathered outside the High Commission of India in London on Monday, displaying anti-India placards and chanting slogans. Similar actions had also taken place in March. Ellis acknowledged these protests and highlighted that there are various ways in which British authorities can respond to extremism, such as closing down TV stations, charities, and schools that may be linked to extremist activities.
Speaking at the India Today Conclave, the UK envoy stated that security measures have been enhanced both around individuals and the buildings of the Indian diplomatic mission in the UK in response to these incidents. He reiterated his strong disapproval of the Glasgow incident, emphasizing that it should not have occurred.
According to a statement issued by the High Commission of India in London, three individuals from outside Scotland deliberately disrupted High Commissioner Vikram Dorwaiswami’s visit to Glasgow Gurdwara Guru Granth Sahib. One of the disruptors even attempted to forcibly open the diplomatic vehicle while Dorwaiswami and others were present. In response to threats and abuse, the High Commissioner and the Consul General of India decided to leave the scene to avoid further confrontation.
Alex Ellis also underscored the UK’s commitment to addressing extremism and maintaining good communication with Indian authorities. He mentioned that the two countries have established a joint task force focused on countering extremism.
“We take extremism seriously, and that is why we have taken measures, whether in terms of security or in other ways, to combat unacceptable extremism in my country,” added the British envoy.
The incident in Glasgow and the protests in London have raised concerns about the activities of pro-Khalistan extremists in the UK. The term “Khalistan” refers to a proposed independent Sikh state. While the majority of Sikhs do not support extremism or violence, a small faction advocates for Khalistan and has been involved in activities that have raised security concerns in India and abroad.
The strong condemnation by the UK’s High Commissioner to India highlights the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations and addressing extremism in a responsible and coordinated manner. Both India and the UK have a shared interest in countering extremism and promoting peace and security. The joint task force and increased security measures are part of the efforts to ensure that extremist activities are addressed effectively and do not undermine bilateral relations between the two countries.
