Britain justifies decision to allow rally in London despite protest by India

Britain today justified its decision to allow holding of a pro-Khalistan rally in London on August 12 despite India describing it as a "separatists' activity" aimed at impinging on India's territorial integrity.

A British High Commission spokesperson said here that people in the UK have a right to protest and to demonstrate their views, provided they act within the law.

"Should a protest contravene the law, the police have comprehensive powers to deal with activities that spread hate or deliberately raise tensions through violence or public disorder," it said.

"This does not negate the right to peaceful protest. The use of these powers and the management of demonstrations are an operational matter for the police," the spokesperson said