London, August 13: Pro-India rally was held in London on Sunday to counter Pro-Khalistan event which was conducted on the same day at the city’s Trafalgar Square. According to a report published by The Statesman, the protesters of the pro-India rally were holding placards that read ‘Waheguru, save us from 2020 madness’ and ‘Sikhs for United India.’ Indian Origin Britons beat drums to protest against the ‘Referendum 2020.’

During the rally, the protesters highlighted the contribution of Sikhs to India’s history. The protesters also alleged the United Kingdom (UK) of supporting anti-India elements. On August 10, All India Anti-Terrorist Front led by Maninderjeet Singh Bitta also protested against the 'London Declaration for Referendum 2020'. Protesters were also carrying placards stating that the UK is supporting Inter-Services Intelligence's (ISI) project codenamed 'Express' against India.

On Sunday, Pro-Khalistani Organisation Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) held a rally demanding a separate country for Sikhs. More than 2,500 people participated in the rally to issue so-called ‘London Declaration’ for holding Referendum 2020’. The Pro-Khalistani protesters were holding anti-India placards. Earlier this month, Kashmiri separatist groups also extended their support to the ‘London Declaration.’ The anti-India rally was also supported Britain’s left-wing Green Party of England and Wales.

However, according to The Statesman’s report, chairman of the British Sikh Association Dr Rami Ranger dismissed the pro-Khalistan rally and termed it as a move by a “handful of un-elected and self-appointed Sikhs.” The Indian government had registered its protest to the UK government against the pro-Khalistani rally, but the UK on August 6 in response to India’s request reiterated that people have the right to demonstrate within the law.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 13, 2018 07:51 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).