Escalating tensions between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan could trigger clashes on British streets, a UK MP has warned, as community leaders call for calm.
According to a report by The Daily Telegraph, concerns are mounting that the deteriorating situation in South Asia could spill over into civil unrest across the UK, particularly in areas with large British Pakistani, Kashmiri and Indian communities.
Ayoub Khan, the independent MP for Birmingham Perry Barr and of Pakistani-Kashmiri heritage, told the Telegraph he expected protests and rallies in Britain as fears for loved ones back home intensify.
He said: “Many communities are feeling the distress emanating from the region, and it is crucial for emotions to not run high.
“British Pakistanis, Kashmiris and Indians are all worrying for loved ones overseas at present, and it is vital that we do not compare or diminish the relative pain being felt by either community.
“I expect there to be protests and rallies, but I appeal for people to stay calm.
“It is imperative that our communities come together to promote the principles of humanity and not division, and vital that the Government does its utmost to broker an immediate end to hostilities.”
His comments come amid renewed fears of unrest following the violence seen in Leicester and Smethwick in 2022. That year saw shocking scenes of street clashes between predominantly young men, with reports of balaclava-clad individuals shouting racial slurs following a cricket match between India and Pakistan.
Religious tensions between Hindus and Muslims were inflamed by misinformation and incendiary posts on social media, sparking widespread community concern.
Vinod Popat, a convener for the Hindu Community Organisations Group, which represents around 50 Hindu groups in Leicester, also took part in the report, where he issued a plea for restraint.
He said: “When things like this in the region happen, emotions run high and it can spill out into this country, especially among the young on both sides.
“Here in Leicester and the rest of the UK, we need to live in harmony and there has to be cohesion.
“But, whatever happens in south-east Asia between India and Pakistan means there’s apprehension that it could have an impact on the streets here.”
Shockat Adam, the independent MP for Leicester South, also expressed deep concern about possible consequences on British soil.
He said: “The situation in the region is alarming and there is a genuine fear that tensions from the region could spill into the streets here in Leicester.
“A great deal of work has been done by faith and community groups to address the issues that ignited previous troubles.
“The onus is on everyone to act responsibly and not take to the streets.
“I have reached out to the police, faith groups and community organisations to promote peace and unity in our vibrant communities, so we can work collaboratively to ensure we do not see any repeat of the troubles in 2022.”
Maswood Ahmed, deputy secretary general of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), said: “Here in the UK, we must unite, upholding our shared values of peace and respect.
“The MCB urges community leaders to take proactive steps in working with local authorities to safeguard public safety and uphold community harmony.”
Meanwhile, a protest held in London last month outside the Pakistan High Commission is now under police investigation after claims emerged that a Pakistani diplomat was seen making a throat-slitting gesture.