A significant number of British Pakistani demonstrators congregated outside the Indian High Commission in central London to voice their 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 heightened tensions in the aftermath of the attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which resulted in 26 fatalities on April 22 and has fueled hostilities between the two nations.
Demonstrators gathered in large numbers, waving Pakistani flags, dancing to Pakistan’s national anthem, and chanting slogans of solidarity. They arrived in coaches from various cities across the UK, including Bradford, Birmingham, Luton, and Manchester.
The protest featured speeches that condemned Indian aggression and demanded an end to the occupation of Kashmir.
Ahsan Dar, PML-N UK President, stated: “This massive turnout reflects the deep sentiment that overseas Pakistanis hold for their homeland. Today, Pakistanis from all over the UK have assembled outside India House to express their unwavering support for the civilian and military leadership of Pakistan. It is evident that India orchestrated a false flag operation in Pahalgam and unjustly blamed Pakistan without presenting any evidence. Several days have passed, and India has failed to produce a single piece of evidence to substantiate its allegations against Pakistan.”
He further added: “We countered Indian protestors on April 25th with a strong presence. We are pleased that activists from PTI, PML-N, and other parties joined us in unity against Indian aggression. The entire nation stands united.”
The British government has urged both Indian and Pakistani communities residing in the UK to maintain calm. Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer stressed the importance of restraint, expressing concerns that the dispute could potentially lead to unrest within the UK’s diverse communities.
The demonstration proceeded peacefully, with a significant police presence ensuring order. There were rumors of a planned counter-demonstration by Indians, but no such event materialised. Last week, approximately 200 individuals of Indian origin had gathered outside the Pakistan High Commission.
