Leicester violence: Indian High Commission condemns, seeks immediate action

“We strongly condemn the violence perpetrated against the Indian Community in Leicester and vandalization of premises and symbols of Hindu religion. We have strongly taken up this matter with the UK authorities and have sought immediate action against those involved in these attacks,” read the release issued by the Indian High Commission.

The commission urged authorities to provide protection to affected people.

Leicestershire Police on Monday said at least 15 people have been arrested in the East Leicester area of the UK on Sunday after a clash erupted when groups of young men began an unplanned protest.

"They all remain in police custody," the police said in a statement.

This comes after various videos and reports have been circulating on social media about Pakistani organized gangs being seen vandalising and terrorising Hindus in the UK’s Leicester City.

The incident follows a spate of violence and disorder in the eastern part of the city, ANI reported.

The violence took place on August 28 after India won the match against Pakistan in Asia Cup 2022, following which a fight broke out in Melton Road, Belgrave, leading to more than 27 arrests so far, according to a UK-based media publication Leicester Mercury, the Indian news agency reported.

The police said in a statement: "We are continuing to call for dialogue and calm with support from local community leaders. We will not tolerate violence or disorder in our city."

Leicestershire Police, in a latest update, said there have been no further reports of disorder in East Leicester, while police operations in the area are underway.