Diaspora across the world celebrated India's 70th Republic Day over the weekend. Republic Day honours the date on which the Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950 replacing the Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India. While the country showed off its military and cultural might on the Republic Day celebrations and parades in New Delhi, in London, the High Commission of India organised their annual reception for the diaspora at City's Guild Hall.
The Secretary of State for Digital, Culture and Media, Rt Jeremy Wright MP was the Chief Guest. In Washington DC, Indian-Americans, proudly waving the tricolor, turned up in unprecedented numbers outside the Embassy to celebrate.
High Commisioner of India to UK, HE Mrs Ruchi Ghanashyam addressing the gathered audience at the evening reception on Monday 28th, that saw hundreds invited, said, “This year India would host 17th Lok Sabha elections. Where 900 mn voters will exercise their franchise. Today India is world's fastest growing economy, with the youngest population in the world. India has excellent growth prospects to unlock its full potential and fulfill the aspirations of its people. India's 70 years of journey is a strong statement of truly inclusive achievements obtained by ever growing number of people working coherently in a harmonious and democratic environment....
“India enjoys close cordial relationship with UK. Our relationship is connected by living bridge made of 'iron' will, 'steel' determination, lasting personal and professional bonds of a large and vibrant Indian diaspora. India-UK relationship draws strength from shared values and commitments to a rule-based international system. We work closely together on bilateral and multilateral forums such as G20 and also the Commonwealth to address local challenges. During the last 3 years, we have exchanged three Prime Ministerial visits and official exchanges.”
Speaking about 'India's spirit of partnership' and the role of the High Commission of India to do so, she added, “The High Commission of India will continue its work tirelessly to further consolidate and deepen India-UK hugely beneficial ties as well as serve Indian citizens and people of Indian origin in the most efficient and friendly manner.
“The High Commission is bringing its consular services to the doorstep of the Indian diaspora.”
The High Commission will be commemorating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and 555th birth anniversary of the first Sikh Guru Shri Guru Nanak Devji with a series of events. Rt Hon Jeremy Wright, who started his speech in Hindi, went on to say “The links between UK-India are growing stronger. Last year we celebrated UK-India Year of Culture. We are thrilled to be welcoming the Indian cricket team for World Cup this summer. I hope we will have lots of visitors from India. We are also looking forward to visitors from India and all over the world for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in 2022...Recently there has been £8bn worth Indian direct investments in UK...”
Emphasising on the relationship between UK-India, especially the visa issues, he said, “The economic relationship between our countries is a thriving one. I understand that the issue of visas is certainly an important one. Last year, we saw a 33 per cent increase in student visas issued alongside a 10 per cent increase in visitor visas. The UK issued more Tier 2 skilled work visas to India than all the other countries in the world combined.”
FCO does not 'condone' flag burning
A small group of Khalistan supporters and activists in Kashmiri outfit, gathered outside India House in London on the Republic Day (January 26) burning India's flag and waving placards against Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chanting anti-India slogans. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office expressed their regret over the incident, said they do not 'condone' such activities, but added they fiercely 'protected' the right to protest peacefully.
The spokesperson in a statement said, “We are disappointed that anyone would chose to burn the Indian flag on any day, let alone the celebration of Republic Day, and we regret the upset that this will have caused...
"We congratulate India on...Republic Day celebration, and look forward to deepening our relationship further as we prepare to leave the European Union and forge new partnerships with key global allies.”
The Metropolitan Police said in a statement said, “On Saturday, 26 January a demonstration took place outside India House in Aldwych, WC2. An appropriate policing plan was in place.
"There were no incidents of note and no arrests. No allegations of crime have been reported. We are aware of a social media video that appears to be from the demonstration outside India House in Aldwych on Saturday, 26 January. We are working to establish the exact circumstances of it.”
