Security personnel removed barricades from outside the residence of British High Commissioner Alex Ellis today, days after pro-Khalistan separatists pulled down the Indian tricolour at the Indian mission in London. The incident sparked outrage and raised concerns over the safety of diplomatic personnel and properties in the United Kingdom.Last week, pro-Khalistan activists gathered outside the Indian High Commission in London, protesting against the Indian government’s handling of the situation in Punjab. The protest escalated when some of the demonstrators managed to enter the premises and pull down the Indian tricolour, replacing it with a Khalistan flag. The act was widely condemned by both Indian and British officials, and authorities quickly launched an investigation into the breach of security.
In response to the incident, security measures were significantly increased around the residences of diplomatic personnel, including the British High Commissioner’s residence. Barricades were installed to prevent any potential attacks or acts of vandalism. However, the enhanced security measures were deemed temporary, and officials confirmed today that the barricades had been removed from outside Alex Ellis’ residence.
The British government has assured the Indian authorities that they will take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of the Indian mission and its staff in London. In a statement, the UK Foreign Office said, “We are committed to the Vienna Convention, which requires us to protect foreign diplomatic missions on our soil. The UK government will work closely with the Indian High Commission to address any security concerns and ensure the safety of their staff and premises.”
The incident has sparked a debate on the increasing radicalization of pro-Khalistan elements in the UK and their potential threat to the safety of diplomatic missions. Intelligence agencies and law enforcement officials are closely monitoring the situation to prevent any further incidents and ensure the safety of diplomatic personnel.The pro-Khalistan movement seeks the creation of a separate Sikh state called Khalistan within the Punjab region, an idea that has been rejected by both the Indian government and the majority of the Sikh community. While the movement has lost significant support in India, it still has a small following among the diaspora in countries like the UK, Canada, and the United States.