When Imran Khan was arrested last month, his supporters took to the streets, not just in Pakistan but also in north America and the UK. 

A demonstration was organised in Scotland for Pakistan’s former prime minister by the Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) West of Scotland, outside the Pakistani Consulate in Glasgow.  The small but vocal group called for his immediate release.  

The protest was peaceful, unlike those that have taken place outside the Pakistan High Commission in London.  

However, given the unpredictable nature of politics in the south Asian country, and with a general election potentially due to take place later in the year, some living close to the consulate are dismayed at the potential prospect of further rallies.

Speaking anonymously one resident said: “This is a quiet area. It wouldn’t be an issue if they were a one-off, but they take place in quick succession, each getting bigger in number especially if it’s taking place at weekends.   

“Every time I watch the news and it kicks off in Pakistan, I know it’s only a matter of time before groups of people are stood outside my house.  If you ask me its selfish. They wouldn’t like it if it was happening where they lived.  

“My neighbours are Pakistani and they too are fed up.” 

Another local, who also didn’t want to give their name, added: “It’s mostly men, you don’t tend to see too many women.  They’re shouting slogans, some using loudspeakers, in a language I’m not familiar with.  

“At bigger demonstrations you’ve a situation where people have spilled out on to the road, which is dangerous and causes obstruction.” 

After Khan was removed from office last year, several demonstrations were held outside the consulate, which is situated in the Pollokshields area of the city.  

Prior to its move in 2005, the consulate was situated in a non-descript office close to the city centre. Its relocation has been controversial from the start.

In its early days a former staff member told me that he was approached by a resident who objected to the flying of the Pakistan flag from the building.

Non-political demonstrations have also taken place. These include when minority groups such Hazara Shias have been attacked or when militants targeted an army-run school in Peshawar (2014).

 In 2016 the British Pakistani Christian Association (BPCA), organised a protest in solidarity with Asia Bibi, who in 2010 was sentenced to death on blasphemy charges but was exonerated eight years later.

 According to the BPCA they were confronted on the day by residents who stated their “everyday lives” have been “disturbed” by the number of other demonstrations that have taken place.  However upon learning that this particular gathering was “highlighting the plight of Pakistani Christians” they were left to protest with their “blessing”.

Last month the consulate hosted Independence Day celebrations, Scotland’s First Minister Humza Yousaf was one of the 600 guests present.

 A resident who witnessed the festivities says the impact of the demonstrations and other events has been 'exaggerated'. 

 She said: “I have watched many a demonstration from my front window and I’ve not witnessed any anti-social behaviour.  They are very civilised.

"There are people in hi-vis making sure that cars are not illegally parked or blocking traffic.  From my perspective kids from the local school cause more of an issue regarding litter than anyone at a demonstration.

“I’ve not had any of my neighbours in this block say they’ve been inconvenienced.”