UK: Sikh activists to rally outside High Commission of India in London July 8

Event

Sikh activists supporting the Khalistan separatist movement plan to demonstrate outside the High Commission of India, on Aldwych, London, from 12:30 July 8. Opposing activists demonstrating support for the Indian government may stage counterdemonstrations.

Police will likely deploy heavily to the site to monitor and manage the protest; at similar actions, in the US July 4, activists attempted to light fires at the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, while activists tore down and set fire to the Indian flag outside the Indian High Commission in London in March 2023. Increased security measures, including possible road closures and movement restrictions, will likely prompt localized business and transport disruptions. Access to the commission will likely be disrupted for the duration of the action. Clashes between rival activists or with security services are possible. Bystanders are unlikely to be directly targeted in any violence but would face an indirect threat of harm.

Advice

Avoid the demonstration as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions July 8. Heed all instructions from security services and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Check for disruptions and allow extra time for travel in the affected area.