Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj

Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj's response to a question on Scotland's referendum has caused ripples in the British media.In her first official press conference on Monday, Ms Swaraj appeared unprepared when a foreign correspondent asked her about the September 18 referendum in Scotland that could lead to a possible break-up of the United Kingdom."A break-up of the UK? God forbid. I don't think any such possibility exists at the moment," the minister said, looking taken aback.When Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh whispered something, Ms Swaraj made a recovery, saying, "It is up to the people of Scotland to decide."A newspaper in Britain headlined the minister's incredulous response."Indian foreign minister horrified by Scottish independence threat," said The Telegraph.The report went on to say that "the diplomatic mask has begun to crack and India's foreign minister has provided a glimpse of unexpressed feelings among policy makers around the globe."The newspaper noted that Ms Swaraj responded to the referendum question "with note of horror." It added that she quickly corrected herself after officials had a word with her.A commentator on a website dedicated to the Scottish referendum debate questioned - "Why are world leaders intervening in the Scottish independence debate?" He listed the Indian foreign minister among world leaders who "have felt compelled to comment on the independence debate on Scotland and the UK."

In India, Ms Swaraj's reaction was seen to reflect the "low priority" the Modi government has given to the UK and other European nations.The foreign ministry is reportedly firming up a position on Scotland, but its officials are being criticized for not briefing their minister on a vote that is being watched across the world.