Waris Punjab De quest updates: UK officials vow to take security of Indian mission 'seriously' after vandalism
The British High Commissioner to India Alex Ellis described the incident as ''disgraceful'' and ''totally unacceptable''.
London, March 20: The United Kingdom government will take seriously the security of the Indian High Commission, the top British officials said. They have condemned that is "disgraceful" and "completely unacceptable", the vandalism that is taking place at the mission by a group of protesters waving separatist Khalistani flags.
Recently, the tricolor which was flying atop of the Indian High Commission was grabbed at by the protesters chanting pro-Khalistani slogans on Sunday, leading to an arrest related to the violent disorder.
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The officials said that the "attempted but failed" attack had been foiled and that the tricolour was now flying "grander". The police said that there are two members of the security staff who sustained minor injuries, they did not require hospital treatment. According to information, investigation has been launched.
London's mayor Sadiq Khan, responding to the incident said that he condemned "the violent disorder and vandalism that took place". "There is no place in our city for this kind of behaviour," he tweeted.
The British High Commissioner to India Alex Ellis later described the incident as "disgraceful" and "totally unacceptable". Lord Tariq Ahmad of Wimbledon, foreign office minister later said he was "appalled" and the government would take the security of the Indian High Commission "seriously".
"This is a completely unacceptable action against the integrity of the Mission and its staff," he tweeted.
Scotland Yard said it was called to reports of disorder on Sunday afternoon and that a man has been arrested as its enquiries continue.
"Windows were broken at the High Commission building," the Metropolitan Police statement said.
"Officers attended the location. The majority of those present had dispersed prior to the arrival of police. An investigation was launched, and one male was arrested nearby a short time later on suspicion of violent disorder. Enquiries continue," the statement said.