India takes up with UK issue of violence outside Indian High Commission in London on Independence Day

India conveyed its concerns to the UK over incidents of violence during a protest by Pakistani supporters outside the Indian High Commission in London on Independence Day, government sources told PTI on Monday. Violent clashes took place outside the Indian High Commission when thousands of people converged there for pre-planned protests and counter-demonstrations on Thursday on the occasion of Independence Day. 

India took up the matter with the British High Commission and conveyed its concerns about the incidents of violence during the protests, sources told news agency PTI. The anti-India protest was organised by Pakistani groups as well as Sikh and Kashmiri separatist outfits over the government's decision on Jammu and Kashmir. A separate pro-India demonstration also took place outside India House as a counter to anti-India protest.

The two demonstrations had been demarcated with metal barriers but as thousands began to gather, Metropolitan Police officers were seen struggling to keep the aggressive anti-India protestors from breaking across the divide. A number of people were also injured in the protests.

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Meanwhile, the Indian High Commission in the UK celebrated the Independence Day with great pomp on Thursday. High Commissioner Ruchi Ghanashyam hoisted the Indian flag during the ceremony which was followed by the recitation of the national anthem.

Republic TV's Live report from London, United Kingdom, showed people from the Indian community gathering in masses with the tricolour to mark the occasion. Chants of 'Vande Mataram' and the celebration of the abrogation of Article 370 took the centre stage during the celebrations. 

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(With PTI inputs)