“Pakistani Diplomat in UK Caught Making Throat-Slitting Gesture at Protesters”
On April 25, 2025, a protest outside the Pakistan High Commission in London escalated when Colonel Taimur Rahat, Pakistan’s Defence Attaché, was captured on video making a throat-slitting gesture towards Indian-origin demonstrators.The protesters had gathered to denounce the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in 26 fatalities. The Times of India+5The Economic Times+5The Times of India+5The Economic Times+4The Times of India+4Hindustan Times+4
In the widely circulated footage, Colonel Rahat is seen standing on the High Commission’s balcony, holding a placard featuring Indian Air Force pilot Abhinandan Varthaman with the caption “Chai is Fantastic.” He then draws his finger across his throat while smiling at the protesters below. Loksatta+4Hindustan Times+4Hindustan Times+4The Times of India+1The Times of India+1
The Metropolitan Police have initiated an investigation into the incident, acknowledging the video and coordinating with relevant government departments to determine appropriate actions. The Times of India+1The Times of India+1
The Indian diaspora in the UK has expressed outrage over the gesture, viewing it as a direct threat and a violation of diplomatic norms. Calls have been made for the UK government to take diplomatic action against the Pakistani official.Hindustan Times
This incident has further strained India-Pakistan relations, already tense following the Pahalgam attack. In response to the attack, India has taken several diplomatic measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and reducing staff at both nations’ High Commissions. YouTube+7The Economic Times+7The Times of India+7The Times of India+2Hindustan Times+2The Economic Times+2
The situation underscores the challenges of maintaining diplomatic decorum amidst escalating tensions and the importance of addressing provocations that threaten peace and stability.
