NEW DELHI: Indian authorities on Thursday removed unauthorised structures and security installations outside the Pakistan High Commission in Chanakyapuri, days after Pakistani authorities took similar action outside the Indian mission in Islamabad.
The structures, located near the visa section of the Pakistan High Commission, were found to have extended beyond the mission’s approved boundary, according to official sources. A JCB was used to remove barricades, traffic bollards, metal fencing and queue-management installations along the lane outside the diplomatic mission.
Visuals from the spot showed broken railings, gates, metal frames, roofing sheets, bricks and concrete debris scattered outside the compound. Some damage was also visible around the visa service area.
The main building of the Pakistan High Commission and its principal entrance, bearing Pakistan’s national emblem, remained intact, officials said.
The action came three days after Pakistani authorities removed security barricades and parking poles outside the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Indian officials had reportedly protested the move.
The developments come amid already strained India-Pakistan relations, with the latest action being seen as a reciprocal response to Islamabad’s move.
The demolition also comes against the backdrop of a fresh diplomatic dispute involving the US. During his recent visit to Srinagar, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor described Jammu and Kashmir as “an important part of India”. Pakistan subsequently summoned the US Charge d’Affaires over the remarks.
The developments underline the continuing diplomatic friction between New Delhi and Islamabad.