Khalistani extremists attempt to attack EAM S Jaishankar in London amidst key diplomatic visit

Several pro-Khalistan supporters held flags and protested outside the venue where EAM Jaishankar participated in a discussion

PGurus Newsdesk

March 6, 2025

Several pro-Khalistan supporters held flags and protested outside the venue where EAM Jaishankar participated in a discussion

Pro-Khalistan protesters heckle Jaishankar, tear Indian flag in London

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar faced heckling and an attempted attack by Khalistani extremists in London on Thursday (IST) while leaving an event at the Chatham House think tank. A video circulating online shows a man rushing towards Jaishankar’s vehicle and tearing the Indian national flag in front of London police officers, who appeared unresponsive to the act of vandalism.

Several pro-Khalistan supporters were seen holding flags and staging a protest outside the venue where Jaishankar had participated in a discussion.

🚨 : Khalistani goons attempt to heckle India’s External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar in London while he was leaving in a car. A man can be seen trying to run towards him, tearing the Indian national flag in front of cops. Police seem helpless, as if ordered to not act. pic.twitter.com/zSYrqDgBRx
— THE SQUADRON (@THE_SQUADR0N) March 5, 2025

Jaishankar’s official visit to the UK and Ireland

The incident took place during Jaishankar’s official visit to the UK from March 4-9, where he is scheduled to hold talks with his British counterpart David Lammy and other key officials. His visit aims to strengthen the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on trade, health, education, defence cooperation, and people-to-people ties.

Following his UK engagements, Jaishankar will travel to Ireland from March 6-7, where he is expected to meet Irish Foreign Minister Simon Harris, interact with Indian diaspora members, and engage in diplomatic discussions.

Jaishankar reaffirms India’s stance on Kashmir

Speaking at Chatham House, Jaishankar reaffirmed India’s position on Kashmir, detailing the government’s actions, including the abrogation of Article 370, economic revival, and high-turnout elections in Jammu & Kashmir. However, he acknowledged that the issue remains partially unresolved, referring to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) as “stolen”. He stated:

“When that’s done, I assure you, Kashmir solved.”

BRICS and the role of the US dollar

Addressing speculations about BRICS moving away from the US dollar, Jaishankar dismissed the notion of a unified policy to replace it.

“I don’t think there’s any policy on our part to replace the dollar.”

He acknowledged that economic multipolarity is a reality, but emphasized that the US dollar remains central to global financial stability. He also noted that BRICS members have differing perspectives on the matter, and India prioritizes working with the US to strengthen the global financial system.

India-China relations: Seeking mutual respect

Regarding India-China relations, Jaishankar noted recent positive developments, including the reopening of the Mount Kailash pilgrimage route. However, he stressed the importance of mutual respect, stating:

“We want a relationship where our interests are respected, sensitivities are recognized, and it works for both of us.”

His remarks reflect India’s strategic approach to maintaining a balanced yet firm stance on China while securing its national interests.

Strengthening India-US relations and trade talks

Jaishankar also spoke about India’s deepening ties with the US, particularly in the context of a multipolar world. He acknowledged that the Trump administration’s approach aligned with India’s interests and highlighted the importance of the QUAD alliance (India, US, Australia, and Japan) in the Indo-Pacific.

“There are no free riders involved,” he remarked, emphasizing the strategic nature of the grouping.

He also confirmed ongoing bilateral trade discussions, with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Washington for negotiations.

Strengthening India’s global diplomatic presence

Jaishankar’s visit to the UK and Ireland aims to reinforce India’s diplomatic partnerships, covering key sectors such as defence, trade, education, and people-to-people ties. His engagements reflect India’s evolving global positioning, balancing assertiveness with diplomacy, and strengthening strategic international partnerships.

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