Khalistani Extremists Target S Jaishankar in London, Tear Indian Flag During UK Visit

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar faced a shocking security scare in London on Wednesday when Khalistani extremists attempted to disrupt his visit. As he left an event at Chatham House, a man charged at his car and tore the Indian national flag in full view of police officers. The incident, caught on video and now viral online, has sparked outrage and raised questions about safety for Indian officials abroad.

The dramatic moment unfolded during Jaishankar’s official UK visit, running from March 4 to 9. In the footage, the protester rushes toward the minister’s convoy, ripping the tricolour while others shouted pro-Khalistani slogans. Initially, police seemed slow to react, but they quickly stepped in, detaining the man and other extremists. Another video showed a group waving Khalistani flags outside the venue, protesting loudly during Jaishankar’s discussion.

Jaishankar was in London to strengthen India-UK ties, meeting UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House on Tuesday. Their talks covered trade, education, technology, and defence—key pillars of the strategic partnership. But the attack overshadowed these efforts, echoing past Khalistani incidents targeting Indian missions, like the 2023 flag vandalism at India’s London High Commission.

ALSO READ | US Demands for Zero Car Tariffs in India Trade Deal as Tesla To Enter Soon

Inside Chatham House, Jaishankar tackled a question about Kashmir, dismissing third-party mediation—like from former US President Donald Trump—for peace with Pakistan. “India’s solved its part with Article 370’s abrogation and elections,” he said firmly. “The issue is Pakistan’s illegal occupation of Kashmir. Once that’s returned, Kashmir’s resolved.”

The Khalistani movement, seeking a Sikh homeland, has a vocal diaspora in the UK and Canada, often clashing with India’s stance. This latest episode follows a pattern—last year, the UK faced India’s ire after a similar flag incident. Posts on X slammed the “lax” police response, with some calling for tougher UK action.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs is yet to comment, but past responses suggest a strong protest to the UK is likely. As Jaishankar heads to Ireland next, this London clash underscores the challenges of diplomacy amid rising extremist tensions.