In an alarming turn of events, the Indian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami, was prevented from entering a Gurdwara in Glasgow, Scotland. This incident unfolds amidst the ongoing diplomatic dispute between India and Canada, primarily centered around the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on June 18.
As captured in a video posted on ‘Sikh Youth UK’s’ Instagram channel, a man, allegedly a pro-Khalistani activist, can be seen obstructing Doraiswami’s access to the Glasgow Gurdwara on Albert Drive.
The video captures a voice saying, “…They are hurting Sikhs in Canada and other places, every Sikh should protest against any Indian Ambassador like we did here in Glasgow.” This incident highlights the claim that there is an existing ban on Indian officials visiting the Gurdwara in their official capacities.
In the video footage, two individuals approach the High Commissioner’s car in the parking area. One of them attempts to open the car door, but it remains locked from the inside. Subsequently, the High Commissioner’s car departs from the Gurdwara premises.
Another individual featured in the video asserts that this is how any Indian ambassador or government official visiting the Gurdwara will be treated. This gesture comes amidst a backdrop of tensions between India and Canada, with the Canadian Prime Minister openly condemning India and expelling Indian diplomats.
The incident was first reported by The Times of India, and a pro-Khalistan activist revealed that Vikram Doraiswami was scheduled to meet with the Gurdwara committee at the Glasgow Gurdwara on Albert Drive. However, he encountered opposition from a few individuals who conveyed his unwelcome status, leading to a minor confrontation. The activist asserted that Indian officials are not welcome in any Gurdwara in the UK.
In response to this development, BJP leader Manjinder Singh Sirsa vehemently condemned the incident, emphasizing the inclusive nature of Gurdwaras, where individuals from all religions and communities are welcome. He underscored the Sikh community’s commitment to humanity and peace, and the global recognition of Sikhs as contributors to society. Sirsa further praised Prime Minister Modi for acknowledging the Sikh community’s contributions and designated Sikhs as protectors of humanity.
Meanwhile, India has lodged complaints regarding threats, violence, and intimidation against Indian diplomats and missions in Canada. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar has raised concerns over the atmosphere of intimidation and violence, stressing that the situation in Ottawa should not become normalized.
This incident follows closely on the heels of allegations that the Indian government was involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, prompting Britain to engage in discussions with Canadian authorities about these serious claims.
As diplomatic tensions continue to escalate, it remains a situation of significant concern, with the potential for further repercussions in the India-Canada relationship.
