Pro-Khalistan rally in London not ok: Ministry of External Affairs

India is miffed with the United Kingdom government for permitting a 'pro-Khalistan' rally in London on August 12. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Raveesh Kumar on Thursday said that concerns have been conveyed in writing as well as in person to the UK government. "We expected the UK government not to allow a group, whose intention is to spread hatred, and impact our bilateral relations. It has been conveyed that the fringe elements were seeking to spread hatred and communal disharmony, propagate secessionism that impinges on India's territorial integrity," he said.

It is believed that Paramjeet Singh Pamma, a suspect wanted in India for his alleged involvement in 2010 bombings in Punjab, is organising the rally under the umbrella of a group named Sikhs for Justice. It is dubbed to be the 'London Declaration' for a 'Referendum 2020'. The rally has also heightened tensions between India and the UK.

"We expect that the UK government will not allow any such group, whose intention is to spread hatred," stressed Kumar, adding that that the majority of the Sikh community — in Britain and around the world — have very good relations with India. So far, the MEA has sent three démarches and a note verbale asking the UK to deny permission. It has also taken up the issue face-to-face with its counterparts in the UK.

To that end, Indian envoy to UK, Yash Sinha held meetings at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office. In its note verbale, according to sources, India also reminded UK of the 'strategic relationship' the two countries share.

However, the UK government has indicated it has no plans of banning the rally, saying "people have the right to gather together and to demonstrate their views, provided that they do so within the law". However, as an aside, London has assured New Delhi that authorities will act, if the protesters violate UK laws or create a law and order situation.

India had earlier lodged a strong protest last April with UK after the Tricolour was burnt by Khalistani elements at Parliament Square while Prime Minister Narendra Modi was addressing a diaspora event in Westminster.

INDIA CONNECT

• It is believed that Paramjeet Singh Pamma, a suspect wanted in India for his alleged involvement in 2010 bombings in Punjab, is organising the rally under the umbrella of Sikhs for Justice 
   
• India has sent three démarches and a note verbale asking the UK to deny permission; has reminded UK of their ‘strategic bilateral ties’