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Tensions between nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan have raised concerns about potential unrest spilling over onto British streets, according to a UK MP, with community leaders urging calm.
A report by the Daily Telegraph highlights fears that the escalating conflict in South Asia could incite tensions in the UK, particularly in areas with significant British Pakistani, Kashmiri, and Indian populations.
Ayoub Khan, the independent representative for Birmingham Perry Barr and of Pakistani-Kashmiri descent, voiced his concerns to the Telegraph, warning that protests in the UK may be sparked by worries over family members in the conflict zone.
Khan stated: "Communities here are feeling the distress from the region, and it’s crucial that emotions don’t escalate. British Pakistanis, Kashmiris, and Indians are all anxious for loved ones abroad, and we must avoid comparing or downplaying the pain felt by either group," reports Birmingham Live.
He anticipates protests and rallies but urges restraint, saying, "Our communities need to come together to uphold humanity and not division. It’s essential that the government does everything possible to bring an immediate end to the hostilities."
His comments come amid heightened tensions following violent clashes in Leicester and Smethwick in 2022, where street confrontations involving young men, some masked and shouting racial slurs, broke out after a cricket match between India and Pakistan.
Social media played a significant role in fuelling the conflict between Hindu and Muslim communities, causing widespread concern among locals.
Vinod Popat of the Hindu Community Organisations Group, representing nearly 50 Hindu groups in Leicester, also called for calm, stating, "When things escalate in the region, emotions can flare up here, especially among the youth on both sides."
He stressed the importance of unity: "We must live in harmony and promote cohesion here in Leicester and across the UK."
Leicester South's independent MP Shockat Adam echoed these concerns, warning that rising tensions in South Asia could have repercussions in the UK: "The situation in the region is alarming, and there's a genuine fear it could spill over onto our streets."
Community and faith leaders have since been working to address the root causes of previous unrest, emphasizing collective responsibility to maintain calm.
"The responsibility is on everyone to act responsibly and not take to the streets," the statement emphasized.
Efforts to foster unity and prevent further conflict have been ongoing, with outreach extended to police, faith groups, and community organisations to work collaboratively toward peace.
Maswood Ahmed from the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) also urged for unity, stating, "Here in the UK, we must stand together, upholding our shared values of peace and respect."
The MCB has called on community leaders to work proactively with local authorities to ensure public safety and prevent a repeat of the 2022 disturbances.
Meanwhile, police are investigating an incident from a protest last month at the Pakistan High Commission in London, following allegations of a menacing gesture by an official.
