BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad, leading an all-party Indian delegation in London, stressed the importance of Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of non-violence amid rising terrorism sponsored from across the border by Pakistan. Speaking on June 1, 2025, Mr. Prasad paid tribute to Gandhi and B.R. Ambedkar, highlighting Gandhi’s timeless message of truth, goodwill, and peace at a large community event at the Indian High Commission in London.
Gandhi’s Legacy and Current Terrorism Threats
Mr. Prasad expressed pride in paying respects at Gandhi’s statue in Tavistock Square, saying the principle of non-violence is even more relevant today given the terrorism threats from Pakistan. Former Minister M.J. Akbar recalled Pakistan’s first known act of state-sponsored terrorism in 1947, when thousands of militants were sent to Kashmir. Akbar said Gandhi, though a symbol of peace, called for strong resistance to terrorism, echoing wartime leader Churchill’s resolve.
Reflecting on Ambedkar’s Vision
The delegation also visited the Ambedkar Museum in North London to honour the architect of India’s Constitution. Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi highlighted Ambedkar’s fight for justice, equality, and inclusivity, contrasting this with Pakistan’s ongoing terror activities and political instability. She pointed out that while India became a Republic in 1950, Pakistan struggles with military control over its government.
Community Support and Diplomatic Outreach
The nine-member delegation, warmly welcomed at India House in London by High Commissioner Vikram Doraiswami and hundreds of Indian diaspora members, emphasized unity beyond party lines. Chanting “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” community leaders showed strong support for India’s firm stance against terrorism. Mr. Prasad assured that India remains strong and ready to counter terrorism, urging the diaspora to spread this message worldwide.
Unified Political Stand and Security Success
BJP MP Daggubati Purandeswari highlighted the delegation’s unity regardless of political differences. Former Deputy National Security Adviser Pankaj Saran praised the success of “Operation Sindoor,” a government directive against terror infrastructure. The High Commissioner stressed the global nature of terrorism and the need for the world to take it seriously, not just India.
Ongoing Diplomacy and Future Engagements
The delegation’s visit includes meetings with UK parliamentarians, think tanks, and diaspora leaders, continuing through June 3, 2025. Afterwards, the group will travel to the EU and Germany to further engage with international leaders and communities. This delegation is part of a broader Indian diplomatic effort to highlight Pakistan’s links to terrorism across 33 global capitals.
Background: Rising India-Pakistan Tensions
Tensions escalated after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in early May 2025, killing 26 people. India responded with precision strikes on terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan retaliated with attempted attacks on Indian military bases. Hostilities ended with military talks and an agreement to stop further actions on May 10, 2025.
The Indian delegation’s UK visit underscores the enduring relevance of Gandhi’s teachings on non-violence amid ongoing security challenges. The collective call for peace, justice, and vigilance reflects India’s resolve to counter terrorism while honouring its founding fathers’ legacies. As the delegation continues its international outreach, the message is clear: unity and firm action are essential to confronting threats and securing a peaceful future.
