Early on Monday workers went on strike in several departments, including the visa processing departments. The reason for the strike is currently unknown, but it is believed to be linked to the protest that took place out side the Embassy later.
“As per the High Commission of India, London applicants are hereby notified to expect delays over the next few days in the processing of their visa applications due to demonstrations and blockages around the High Commission of India, London by crowds protesting about the situation concerning the Sri Lankan Tamils in Sri Lanka.” That is the official statement release on the High Commission website.
The demonstration began at about 8:15 (local time) with a crowd of 150 people protesting the current civil war in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan Tamil protesters smashed windows of the Indian High Commission and forced their way inside the building when a door was opened to allow a staff member in. The High Commission is reported to have sought adequate protection from the British Government. Five Sri Lankan Tamils were arrested by British Police forces. No one in the High Commission was injured.
The final demonstrator count was in the thousands.
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