By Kaveesha Fernando
LONDON, United Kingdom (CWBN)_ Thousands of people in central London joined Indian farmers in solidarity on Sunday, protesting new farm laws introduced by the Indian government.
A photographer for a reputed international news agency who was at the scene stated that the protestors demonstrated in front of the Indian High Commission and Trafalgar Square in London.
Social distancing seemed to be an issue at the protests – health and safety measures to prevent the pandemic such as social distancing and mask-wearing seemed to be at an all-time low. Police requested that crowds disperse; some of those who refused were arrested.
Historically, the UK’s Indian diaspora has been a vocal minority, and many British Indian nationals hold prominent positions in society. However, it appeared that the protesters’ message was diluted as they seemed to be protesting for different reasons and stating different demands. Supporters of the Khalistan movement, who want the regions of Punjab controlled by India and Pakistan to be united and autonomous, are also reported to have been present at the protests, replete with Khalistani flags. Indian media also reported that one protestor referenced America’s “Black Lives Matter” movement.
International media has reported that misinformation has gone viral following the protests. This includes news that Kamala Harris has publicly backed the farmers’ protest, complete with a photoshopped tweet.
Indian farmers have engaged in weeks of protest against new farm laws which they feel leave them at a disadvantage. The move strips away some of the protections which they were afforded in the past, such as government regulation of produce prices, without which they fear that they will be at the mercy of the private sector, who might try and drive down prices.
