LONDON: A large number of British Pakistani demonstrators gathered outside the Indian High Commission in central London to show support for Pakistan, as tensions escalate following India’s war threats.
Organised by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) UK President Ahsan Dar, the rally was a response to escalating tensions following the attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which claimed 26 lives on April 22 and has led to hostilities between the two countries.
Demonstrators gathered in large numbers, waving Pakistani flags, dancing to Pakistan’s national anthem and chanting slogans. They came in coaches from Bradford, Birmingham, Luton and Manchester.
The protest featured speeches condemning Indian aggression and calls for an end to the occupation of Kashmir.
Ahsan, PML-N UK President, said: “This huge show is a reflection of the sentiment Pakistanis overseas have for their motherland.
Today, Pakistanis from across the UK have come outside of India House to express their support for the civilian and military leadership of Pakistan.
It’s clear that India launched a false flag operation in Pahalgam and blamed Pakistan without any evidence. It’s been several days, and India has not produced a single piece of evidence to back up its claims against Pakistan.
He added: “We countered Indian protestors on the 25th of April in large numbers. We are glad that activists of PTI, PML-N and other parties joined us too against the Indian aggression. The whole nation is united.”
The British government has urged both Indian and Pakistani communities in the UK to remain calm. Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer emphasised the importance of restraint, expressing concerns that the dispute could lead to unrest within the UK’s diverse communities.
The demonstration unfolded peacefully, with a heavy police presence ensuring order. It was rumoured that Indians would hold a counter demonstration, but there was no show of anyone. Last week, around 200 Indians had gathered outside the Pakistan High Commission.
