INSIGHT UK CONDEMNS THE ATTACK ON THE INDIAN HIGH COMMISSION IN LONDON AND THE DESECRATION OF THE FLAG OF INDIA.
INSIGHT UK strongly condemns the attack on the High Commission of India (HCI) in London and the desecration of the Indian flag by Khalistani extremists today.
We express our deep concern and outrage over this shameful act of disrespect towards a national symbol and the sovereign representation of India in the UK.
India’s diplomatic mission in London has been under repeated attacks. Such acts of violence and aggression not only undermine the values of democracy but also pose a serious threat to the safety and security of diplomatic missions and their personnel. This will also adversely affect bilateral relations and trade between India and UK.
In the UK, the government has taken strong measures to combat terrorism and violent extremism, including designating groups as terrorist organisations, arresting and prosecuting individuals involved in such activities, and working with international partners to prevent the spread of extremist ideologies.
A diplomatic mission, such as an embassy or consulate, represents the interests and sovereignty of a foreign country in the host country. It serves as the official channel of communication between the two countries and plays a critical role in promoting bilateral relations, facilitating trade, and protecting the rights and interests of their citizens. For these reasons, the host country has a legal and moral obligation to ensure the safety and security of diplomatic missions on its soil.
Under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), the host country has an obligation to take all appropriate measures to protect the premises of the diplomatic mission, prevent any intrusion or damage, and ensure the safety and freedom of movement of its staff. This includes providing adequate security and police protection, monitoring potential threats, and taking action to prevent or mitigate any attacks or disruptions.
We urge the UK government to call out the extremists involved in attacks against the HCI not just today but also in the past and take swift and strong action against them and ensure the safety and security of all diplomatic missions and personnel.
We stand in solidarity with the people of India, the Indian diaspora and the High Commission of India in the UK in denouncing such acts of violence and intimidation. We also urge all communities to promote respect for diversity and peaceful coexistence and to reject any attempts to promote hatred and division.
