On October 2, Khalistani sympathizers organized a protest outside the Indian High Commission in London, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary. During the demonstration, protesters set fire to the Indian Tricolor flag, and Gurcharan Singh, a prominent leader associated with the Dal Khalsa UK, poured cow urine on the Indian national flag.
In an attempt to escalate the situation, Gurcharan Singh even dared UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to consume British cow urine. As the protest unfolded, Gurcharan Singh was eventually escorted away by the police, although it remains unclear whether his actions led to his arrest.
What further added to the gravity of the situation was the presence of Paramjit Singh Pamma, who is among the 'most wanted' individuals on the National Investigation Agency's (NIA) list. Pamma, allegedly linked to the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF), seized the opportunity to issue challenges and threats to India following the killing of Harjeet Singh Nijjar in Canada.
This protest occurred shortly after an incident in which the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, was prevented by Khalistani extremists from entering a gurdwara in Glasgow, Scotland. India reported this incident to the British government, demanding stringent action against those responsible.
It is imperative to understand the backgrounds of these individuals whose actions have generated controversy:
1. Paramjit Singh Pamma: A known Khalistani terrorist affiliated with the Khalistan Tiger Force, Pamma is so notorious that he is listed as one of the most wanted individuals by the NIA.
2. Gurcharan Singh: As a leader of the Dal Khalsa UK, he is actively associated with Sikhs for Justice (SFJ). Singh's actions and statements have frequently sparked controversy.
The connections between Gurcharan, and Pamma, and their links to the Pakistan High Commission in London have raised concerns. Given their established ties to Pakistan, a country often criticized for sheltering elements working against India, these connections hint at a potential agenda to mobilize Khalistani elements against India from foreign soil.
Regarding the Khalistan protests outside the Indian High Commission in London, there was significant interest in the responses from international bodies and governments. The US State Department, through Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel, provided a noteworthy reaction.
Patel, addressing the contentious issue of the Khalistan referendum by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), an organization designated as a terrorist group in India, refrained from making direct comments. He stated that they would not comment on the unofficial referendum. However, Patel underscored the significance of fundamental rights enshrined in the American constitution, emphasizing freedom of speech and the right to peacefully assemble, in line with First Amendment protections and adherence to appropriate federal and local regulations.
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