NIA takes over probe into attack on Indian High Commission in London
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New Delhi: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the case of attack on the Indian High Commission in London on March 19 by pro-Khalistan protesters, nearly a month after the incident.
The agency took over the case from the special cell of the Delhi police.
The case was registered after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs had asked Delhi Police to take legal action following which an FIR was registered under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and an investigation was initiated in the case.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier given the nod to transfer the case to NIA.
According to reports, the case was handed over to the NIA by the Counter Terrorism and Counter Radicalization (CTCR) division of the Ministry of Home Affairs a few days back.
The anti-terror agency registered a First Information Report (FIR) based on the orders of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and began its probe.
The MHA took the decision to hand over the case to the NIA following a meeting with UK representatives last week, the sources indicated. A special team of the NIA, including a Deputy Inspector General rank officer, may visit London "very soon", reports NDTV.
A protest was staged by pro-Khalistani activists at the Indian High Commission in London on March 19 during which the Tricolour was pulled down from the premises by a group of protestors waving Khalistani flags and chanting pro-Khalistan slogans.
British cops arrived on the scene and prevented the protestors from approaching the building.
The Centre had also summoned the British Deputy High Commissioner demanding an explanation over the complete absence of security during the protest. The British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis had described the incident as "disgraceful" and "totally unacceptable".
The centre amended the NIA Act in August 2019, empowering the agency to investigate terror activities against Indians and Indian interests abroad apart from cybercrimes and human trafficking.
In the fifth India-UK Home Affairs Dialogue held last Wednesday, India raised concerns on the misuse of the UK's asylum status by the Khalistan supporters. India also pointed out its concerns over the breach of security of the Indian High Commission.