Sikh separatists heckle Indian foreign minister in London (VIDEO)

New Delhi has strongly condemned the actions of pro-Khalistan activists in the UK capital

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar was heckled by a group of pro-Khalistan activists who breached security as the minister stepped out of London’s Chatham House during a visit to the UK on Wednesday. New Delhi has condemned the incident, calling out the UK government for providing space to radical movements.

As the Indian minister departed Chatham House, an individual rushed toward his vehicle and tore off the Indian national flag in front of police officers. The perpetrator was briefly detained by police.

Demonstrators carrying Khalistan flags and loudspeakers were also seen chanting pro-Khalistan slogans outside Chatham House while Jaishankar was delivering a speech.

India’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, commenting on the footage circulating online, said New Delhi “deplores the misuse of democratic freedoms by such elements.” ”We expect the host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations,” the statement noted. Jaishankar is currently on a six-day visit to the UK and Ireland.

New Delhi has repeatedly raised the issue of the activities of Khalistan supporters in the UK, Canada, and US with the countries’ respective governments. Separatists have staged protests, shouted anti-India slogans, and attacked diplomatic missions and Hindu temples in these countries. All three nations have large Sikh communities.