Glasgow Gurdwara Condemns Disruption by Khalistani Extremists During Indian High Commissioner's Visit, Prompting Investigation; UK Announces £95,000 Fund to Combat Pro-Khalistan Extremism
The Glasgow Gurdwara strongly condemns disruption caused during a planned visit by Indian High Commissioner to the UK. Local police are investigating the incident, and the Indian High Commission has informed UK authorities. The gurdwara reaffirms its commitment to inclusivity and faith principles. This incident is part of an ongoing diplomatic standoff between India and Canada regarding pro-Khalistan extremism. UK officials express concerns and a report calls for the government to address the issue. In response, the UK Security Minister announces a fund to tackle pro-Khalistan extremism.
The Glasgow Gurdwara Guru Granth Sahib Sikh Sabha has strongly condemned the disruption caused by Khalistani extremists during a planned visit by Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami. The gurdwara issued a statement expressing its disapproval of the disorderly behavior and confirmed that the local police are investigating the matter. The High Commission of India in London also released a statement, informing that the UK Foreign Office and Metropolitan Police have been informed about the disgraceful incident.
- @RishiSunak Sir, this is serious !
— Major Surendra Poonia (@MajorPoonia) September 30, 2023
Khalistani terrorists forcibly stopped Indian High Commissioner to UK Sh @VDoraiswami from visiting Gurudwara in Glasgow.
Sikh Gurudwara Committee who was welcoming Mr Soraswami also threatened by Khalistanis pic.twitter.com/ESSoTdxWDY
According to the gurdwara statement, unknown individuals from outside the Glasgow area attempted to disrupt the visit, leading the visiting party to leave the premises. However, even after their departure, these unruly individuals continued to disturb the gurdwara congregation, resulting in the intervention of Police Scotland. The gurdwara reiterated its commitment to welcoming people from all communities and backgrounds, emphasizing its principles of faith. This incident follows an ongoing diplomatic standoff between India and Canada regarding pro-Khalistan extremism.
The Indian government has strongly rejected allegations of its involvement in the murder of a designated terrorist. British officials, including Anne-Marie Trevelyan, the UK Foreign Office minister for Indo-Pacific, have expressed their concerns about the incident, emphasizing the importance of the safety and security of foreign diplomats and the need for places of worship to be open to all.
A report by independent faith engagement adviser Colin Bloom had previously highlighted the aggressive actions of some pro-Khalistan activists, calling for the UK government to address this issue. In response to the incident, UK Security Minister Tom Tugendhat announced a £95,000 fund to tackle pro-Khalistan extremism.
