Protesters carrying Khalistani and Kashmiri flags targeted people from the Indian diaspora that had gathered outside the Indian high commission in London to celebrate their Independence Day. Protesters of mostly Pakistani origin threw projectiles like bottles, lighters, batteries, eggs at the gathered Indian families. Riot police had to intervene.
Crux of the Matter
The Indian Government recently revoked Article 370, thereby revoking Jammu & Kashmir’s special status and integrating it with the union. Further the government has bifurcated the region into 2 Union Territories, increasing the control of the centre on the region.
This move also implicitly rejects Pakistan’s claims on the region. The Kashmir issue has been a long standing point of contention between India and Pakistan.
While a majority of Indians are happy with the move, there are sections that are unhappy with it. The same applies to the people of J&K.
Pakistan and its diaspora are also unhappy with the move and have been pushing their narrative on social media.
UK has a significant population hailing from the subcontinent. The recent tensions between the two nations has spilled over onto their diaspora.
Curiopedia
Article 370 of the Indian constitution gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir, allowing it to have a separate constitution, a state flag and autonomy over the internal administration of the state. The government of India revoked this special status in August 2019 through a Presidential Order and the passage of a resolution in Parliament. More Info – Wikipedia
Curated Coverage
ET Now – Anti-India protest: 4 arrested in anti-India protest outside Indian mission in UK – The Economic Times Video
Business Today – Thousands waving Pakistani, Kashmiri flags protest outside Indian High Commission in Britain
Reuters – Thousands protest in Britain for Kashmir outside Indian High Commission
Times of India – Violent protests outside Indian mission in London, PIOs hurt
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