Recently, there have been reports circulating in the media that India has put a hold on trade talks with the UK following a Khalistan mob attack on the Indian High Commission in London. However, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has refuted these claims, stating that they are “completely baseless.” In this article, we will explore the details of the alleged attack, the MEA’s response, and the impact of such reports on India-UK relations.
Details of the Alleged Attack
According to reports, a group of Khalistani protesters attacked the Indian High Commission in London on April 9, 2023. The protesters allegedly vandalized the building and hurled stones and eggs at it. The protesters allegedly attempted to break into the building but the police stopped them.
Indian politicians widely condemned the incident and the Ministry of External Affairs expressed its strong protest over the attack in a statement. The MEA has also called on the UK authorities to take action against those responsible for the attack and to ensure the safety and security of Indian diplomatic personnel and premises.
MEA Refutes Reports of India Halting Trade Talks
In the wake of the alleged attack, there have been reports in the media that India has put a hold on trade talks with the UK. However, the MEA has dismissed these reports as completely baseless. In a statement, the MEA said that India and the UK are committed to strengthening their trade and economic ties, and that any reports to the contrary are “completely baseless and mischievous.”
Impact on India-UK Relations
The alleged attack on the Indian High Commission in London and the subsequent reports of India halting trade talks with the UK have the potential to strain the relationship between the two countries. However, both India and the UK have a long history of economic and strategic ties, and it is unlikely that such incidents will have a long-term impact on the relationship.
That said, it is important for both countries to take steps to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. The UK authorities must ensure the safety and security of Indian diplomatic personnel and premises, while India must continue to engage with the UK to address any concerns and to strengthen the bilateral relationship.
In conclusion, the reports of India halting trade talks with the UK following the alleged Khalistani mob attack on the Indian High Commission in London are completely baseless, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. While such incidents have the potential to strain India-UK relations, it is important for both countries to work together to prevent them from happening in the future and to strengthen their bilateral ties.
