Title: Indian High Commissioner Blocked from Entering Scottish Gurdwara, Incident Deemed “Disgraceful”
Date: September 30, 2023
New Delhi – In a strongly worded statement, India has condemned the blocking of its High Commissioner and Consul General from entering a gurdwara in Scotland, calling the incident “disgraceful.” The matter has been reported to the UK government and the police.
A viral video circulating on social media shows an individual obstructing the Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Doraiswami, from entering the gurdwara in Glasgow on Friday. Additionally, two men are seen attempting to open the door of the High Commissioner’s car in the parking area, but their efforts are thwarted as the vehicle was locked. Eventually, the car left the premises of the Glasgow Gurudwara Saheb.
This incident occurs amid a growing diplomatic row between India and Canada, sparked by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s accusation of “Indian government agents” being involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in June.
In an official statement released on Saturday, the High Commission of India in London mentioned that “extremist elements” disrupted a planned interaction organized by the Gurdwara Committee. The statement further revealed that one of these individuals attempted to forcefully open the door of Mr. Doraiswami’s car.
According to the statement, “On September 29, 2023, three persons – all from areas outside Scotland – deliberately disrupted a planned interaction organized by the Gurudwara Committee for the community, the High Commissioner, and the Consul General of India. This interaction was to discuss community and consular issues.”
The statement continued, “The organisers included senior community leaders, ladies, and Committee members, and a member of the Scottish Parliament. They were threatened and abused by these elements. In an effort to prevent any potential altercation, the High Commissioner and Consul General decided to leave the premises shortly upon their arrival.”
Highlighting the severity of the situation, the High Commission pointed out that the attempt by one of the “non-local extremist elements” to violently force open the door of the Commissioner’s car needs to be investigated by the police. It emphasized that the timely intervention of one of the organizers, who physically intervened, prevented a potentially larger incident.
The High Commission of India has reported this disgraceful incident to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and the Metropolitan Police. The statement included that the organizers and multiple community organizations have expressed regret over the incident and have called for action against the culprits.
Authorities are being urged to respond promptly and take appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of diplomats and citizens alike.