British Pakistanis Rally in London Amidst Rising Tensions

A significant gathering of British Pakistani protesters convened outside the Indian High Commission in central London, expressing solidarity with Pakistan amidst escalating tensions and recent war threats from India.

Organized by Ahsan Dar, the UK President of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), the demonstration addressed increasing hostilities after the Pahalgam incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) on April 22, which resulted in 26 fatalities.

Demonstrators assembled in substantial numbers, waving Pakistani flags, engaging in the nation’s anthem, and chanting slogans. Participants traveled by bus from various cities including Bradford, Birmingham, Luton, and Manchester.

The demonstration included speeches denouncing alleged Indian aggression, demanding an end to the occupation of Kashmir.

Ahsan Dar, the PML-N UK President, stated: “This considerable display highlights the feelings that overseas Pakistanis harbor for their homeland.

Today, Pakistanis from across the UK have gathered near India House to voice their backing for Pakistan’s leadership, both civilian and military.

He asserted that India initiated a fabricated incident in Pahalgam, placing blame on Pakistan without providing substantiating evidence. He noted the absence of evidence from India to support its accusations against Pakistan despite the passage of several days.

He further stated: “We faced Indian protesters on April 25 with a strong turnout. We appreciate the involvement of activists from PTI, PML-N, and other parties in joining us against Indian aggression. The entire nation stands together.”

The British government has appealed to both Indian and Pakistani communities within the UK to maintain peace. Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer stressed the need for self-control, fearing that the dispute could incite turmoil among the UK’s diverse communities.

The demonstration proceeded calmly, monitored by a robust police presence. Speculation of a counter-protest by Indians did not materialize. The previous week, approximately 200 Indians had assembled outside the Pakistan High Commission.