Sikh Activists Clash with Hindu Protesters Outside Bangladesh High Commission in London

A protest outside the Bangladeshi High Commission in London turned tense on Saturday when pro-Khalistan Sikh activists clashed with a small group of Hindu protesters, prompting swift intervention by the Metropolitan Police.

The demonstration was held in response to reports of alleged violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. During the protest, Paramjeet Singh Pamma, identified by organisers as a coordinator of the Khalistan Referendum campaign, became involved in a brief scuffle with an Indian Hindu protester. Police officers on duty quickly separated the individuals and moved the groups away from the immediate vicinity of the diplomatic mission.

Following the intervention, pro-Khalistan Sikh protesters regrouped and formed a cordon near the High Commission entrance, continuing their demonstration while chanting political slogans. They accused the India government of involvement in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and others. Law enforcement maintained a visible presence to prevent further confrontation.

India has designated Pamma as a “most wanted terrorist,” an allegation he and his supporters deny. He currently resides in the United Kingdom, and UK authorities have not announced any charges against him. Previous extradition requests by India have not resulted in court action.

Nijjar, who was wanted by Indian authorities for alleged terrorism-related offences, was shot dead in June 2023 outside a Sikh temple in Vancouver, an incident that triggered a diplomatic dispute between India and Canada. In a related development, U.S. authorities later said they had thwarted a plot to kill Sikh separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, issuing warnings to New Delhi over alleged involvement, according to reports by the Financial Times.

The Metropolitan Police said the situation in London was brought under control and did not announce any arrests or further action following Saturday’s incident.