UK high commissioner condemns heckling of Indian envoy outside Glasgow Gurdwara

Alex Ellis, the United Kingdom`s High Commissioner/ X

Alex Ellis, the United Kingdom's High Commissioner to India, strongly denounced the recent incident in Glasgow, where his Indian counterpart faced obstruction from pro-Khalistan extremists attempting to enter a gurdwara. Ellis emphasized that such an incident "absolutely should not have happened."

According to a report in PTI, he highlighted that arrests were made in response to protests outside the High Commission of India in London, where demonstrators displayed anti-India placards and chanted slogans. Similar actions had occurred in March as well, he noted. Ellis expressed that British authorities have alternative means to address extremism, including the closure of television stations, charities, and schools that may be involved in such activities.

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Speaking at a media channel's conclave in Mumbai, the UK envoy underlined the importance of strengthening security measures around individuals and Indian diplomatic premises. He reiterated his concerns about the Glasgow incident, stating that it was an occurrence that should not have taken place.

According to a statement released by the High Commission of India in London, three individuals from outside Scotland deliberately disrupted the visit of Indian High Commissioner Vikram Dorwaiswami to Glasgow Gurdwara Guru Granth Sahib on a Friday evening. One individual even attempted to forcefully open the diplomatic vehicle while Dorwaiswami and others were arriving. As threats and abuse were hurled, the High Commissioner and the Consul General of India decided to leave to prevent further altercations.

Ellis also highlighted the strong communication between the UK and Indian authorities, indicating that both countries have established a joint task force to combat extremism.

"We take extremism seriously, and that is why we have implemented measures, whether in terms of security or other means, to counteract unacceptable extremism in my country," the British envoy was quoted as saying in the report.

The incident in Glasgow and related protests in London have raised concerns over the safety and security of Indian diplomatic officials in the UK. It remains a matter of international importance and diplomatic dialogue between the two nations as they work together to address extremism and ensure the safety of diplomatic missions.