The recent unrest in the UK has prompted India, among other countries, to issue a safety warning for its nationals visiting the country. The violence erupted following a misinformation campaign that falsely implicated a Muslim asylum-seeker in a stabbing attack in Southport, which led to attacks on immigrants and mosques. This situation has significantly affected the Indian community, both residents and travelers, prompting advisories to stay vigilant and avoid protest areas.
Ajay Prakash, a travel agency operator in London, noted that the unrest is causing many Indian travelers to reconsider their plans, impacting his business and raising concerns within the broader Asian community. The Indian High Commission in London has advised nationals to follow local news and security advisories closely.
Prakash, who is also the secretary of an Indian community association, said many Asians have grown increasingly concerned over how the situation is unfolding in the UK. “What I can say is that the Asian community as a whole … all are concerned at the moment,” he said. “We are scared.”