More than fifty people turned out to protest against the visit of an Indian diplomat.

Ronen Sen, India's High Commissioner visited Jan's Conference Centre in Blackburn where he was to meet with members of the local community.

Protesters waited for over an hour for the diplomat who was to attend a private meeting organised by the Indian Workers Assocaition.

They said they were demonstrating against what they describe as the Indian government's occupation of Kashmir and treatment of their people.

Haji Nazir Alam, president of the Jammu and Kashmir Liberation League UK, said, "We want to highlight the injustices being committed in Kashmir. Kashmiris should be able to decide their future for themselves."

Mohammed Shahban, Co-ordinator of the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and an advisor to the ex-prime minister of Kashmir travelled from London to the demonstration. He told us, "The Indian Government should give the right of determination to Kashmiris. This is something we will continue to demand."

"Human rights violations in the region should be tackled."

At the meeting itself, last year's sectarian riots which claimed more than 3000 lives was top of the agenda. Speakers on the night including Ibrahim Master, Lancashire County Council Chairman, Valli Patel and Gujarat Hindu Society president, Ishwer Tailer who all condemned the atrocities. Ibrahim Master, said, "We gave the protesters the opportunity to come and talk to the high commissioner separately, because if they are concerned about the Muslims of Kashmir. I thought they would take that opportunity face to face."

In a speech delivered at the meeting, Mr Master said he hoped Mr Sen would take back several messages to his government.

He voiced concerns about the death of Muslims in Gujarat last year and a lack of protection offered by police and civil administrations. Speaking on the night Ishwer Tailer said, "We have all lived in harmony in Lancashire and this is due to the work of a lot of good people.

"I hope this meeting can send out a postive message that when it comes to issues of violence we are all united."

Inspector Steve Haworth said, "It passed off peacefully.

"A couple of eggs were thrown at the car but there were no further problems."