Protests by Pakistanis against the Kashmir decision in London took an ugly turn as a large group of UK-based Pakistanis descended outside the Indian High Commission on Tuesday. Windows of the HC were shattered, eggs and shoes were thrown and slogans were raised. This is the second protest staged by the Pakistani community in Britain. The first one took place when the Indian community was celebrating Independence Day on August 15.
The protesters were angry about New Delhi's decision to abrogate Article 370, that granted autonomy and special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. With the act repealed, the state now comes under the Centre's rule, with it being divided into two union territories — J&K and Ladakh.
Reports estimated around 10,000 protesters who marched with a flag of Pakistan occupied Kashmir and anti-India placards from Parliament square to the Indian High Commission in London.
“Another violent protest outside the Indian High Commission in London today, 3 September 2019. Damage caused to the premises. @foreignoffice @UKinIndia @MEAIndia @DominicRaab @DrSJaishankar @PMOIndia @tariqahmadbt,” tweeted the Indian High Commission
Another violent protest outside the Indian High Commission in London today, 3 September 2019. Damage caused to the premises. @foreignoffice @UKinIndia @MEAIndia @DominicRaab @DrSJaishankar @PMOIndia @tariqahmadbt pic.twitter.com/2sv0Qt1xy8
— India in the UK (@HCI_London) September 3, 2019
London Mayor Sadiq Khan tweeted, “I utterly condemn this unacceptable behaviour and have raised this incident with @metpoliceuk to take action.”
On August 15 too, Pakistani protesters cornered Indians at the High Commission and pelted them with eggs, potatoes and water bottles.
