In a recent visit to the Glasgow Gurdwara, Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, found himself in a challenging predicament.
The episode unfolded when a group of individuals, believed to be pro-Khalistani activists, obstructed his entry into the sacred religious establishment. Instead of opting for a confrontation, Doraiswami wisely chose to de-escalate the situation by withdrawing from the scene.
However, this incident did not pass unnoticed, as it swiftly garnered the attention of both the UK Foreign Office and local authorities.
The incident itself was captured on an Instagram video shared by ‘Sikh Youth UK,’ shedding light on the grievances of those involved. In the video, one of the activists passionately articulated their concerns, highlighting their commitment to standing up against perceived injustices faced by Sikhs not only in Canada but also in various other parts of the world.
The footage vividly depicts two individuals positioned near the High Commissioner’s car, making an attempt to unlock the car door just as Doraiswami prepared to depart from the Gurudwara premises.
Moreover, the video features another individual who directly addresses the camera, making a resolute assertion that any Indian ambassador or government official seeking entry into the Gurdwara will encounter similar treatment.
He subtly alludes to the simmering diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, underscoring the significance of the Canadian Prime Minister’s recent condemnation of India. He also mentions the horrifying June 18 death of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which led to the expulsion of Indian ambassadors from Canada.
‘Sikh Youth UK’ claims that there exists an ongoing ban, preventing Indian officials from visiting the Gurdwara in their official capacities. This assertion only adds fuel to the fire, further exacerbating the diplomatic tensions that have been escalating between India and Canada in recent times.
In response to these unsettling events, India’s External Affairs Minister, Jaishankar, has taken a proactive stance by drawing international attention to the threats, violence, and intimidation specifically targeting Indian diplomats and missions in Canada.
Jaishankar raises a poignant question that lingers in the minds of many: Would a similar situation be tolerated or treated differently if it occurred in any other country? He emphasizes the pressing need to avoid normalizing the situation in Ottawa, indicating that the incidents in Canada are anything but ordinary. These occurrences serve as a stark reminder of the intricate and highly sensitive nature of diplomatic relations, both between nations and among diverse communities.
