“The UK’s most senior diplomat was summoned to New Delhi late this evening to convey India’s strong protest at the action by separatist and extremist elements against the Indian High Commission in London,” the Foreign Office said.
It added, “An explanation was sought for the complete absence of British security allowing these elements to enter the High Commission compound.”
The Foreign Office said the diplomat was reminded of the UK government’s basic obligations under the Vienna Convention.
The Ministry of External Affairs said, “India finds unacceptable the apathy of the UK government towards the security of Indian diplomatic premises and personnel in the UK.”
It sought immediate steps to identify, arrest and prosecute those involved in today’s incident.
“It is expected that the UK government will take immediate steps to identify, arrest and prosecute those involved in today’s incident, and will take strong measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents,” the Foreign Office said.
In a tweet, High Commissioner Ellis said, “I condemn today’s shameful acts against the people and premises of @HCI_London – completely unacceptable.”
Images of broken windows and people climbing the India House building were circulating on social media, and video from the scene showed an Indian officer snatching a flag from a protester from a first-floor window of the Mission, while the protester was Khalistani flag was seen waving. hanging from its ledge.
Scotland Yard said it was aware of any incidents in the area but has yet to issue an official statement.