'Glasgow Gurudwara Strongly Condemns' Incident Denying Indian Envoy's Entry

The Gurdwara Guru Granth Sahib Sikh Sabha has issued a statement strongly condemning the incident when Indian High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram Dorwaiswami was prevented from entering a gurdwara in Glasgow, Scotland, by Khalistani extremists on Friday.

In their statement, Glasgow Gurdwara expressed their strong disapproval of such disorderly behavior that disrupted the tranquil atmosphere of a Sikh place of worship. "Glasgow Gurdwara strongly condemns such disorderly behaviour to disrupt the peaceful proceedings of a Sikh place of worship," they said in their statement.

They recounted the events of 29th September, explaining that individuals from outside the Glasgow area attempted to disrupt Dorwaiswami's visit. The Gurudwara said, "After the departure of the visitors, these unruly individuals continued to disturb the Gurdwara congregation. Police Scotland was in attendance thereafter and have taken cognizance of the matter"

The press statement further said, "The Gurudwara is open to people from all communities and backgrounds, and we welcome everyone openly as per our principles of faith."

On 29th September, Dorwaiswami's visit was obstructed by a group of alleged Khalistani British Sikh activists who made it clear that he was "not welcome." The Indian envoy had a scheduled meeting with the Gurdwara committee of the Glasgow Gurdwara on Albert Drive, which led to a confrontation with these activists.

In response to this incident, India officially raised the matter with the United Kingdom on Saturday, urging action against those responsible for the disruption. The High Commission of India in London issued a statement, highlighting that three individuals from outside Scotland deliberately disrupted the envoy's visit. It also noted that one of the men attempted to forcibly open the envoy's car door, a matter that warrants police consideration.

This incident occurred against the backdrop of a significant diplomatic dispute between India and Canada concerning the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil in earlier in June this year.