UK Commits Funds to Address Pro-Khalistan Extremism in India
The United Kingdom has pledged financial support to enhance its capacity in combating pro-Khalistan extremism in India. Tom Tugendhat, the UK Security Minister, made the announcement following a meeting with India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar in New Delhi. Tugendhat is currently on a three-day visit to India to strengthen bilateral cooperation on security initiatives and attend the G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial Meeting in Kolkata.
The British High Commission in India stated that the £95,000 investment aims to augment the UK government’s understanding of the threat posed by pro-Khalistan extremism. It will complement the ongoing collaboration between the UK and India through the Joint-Extremism Task Force. Tugendhat emphasized the significance of the partnership between the two nations in tackling security challenges and expressed his commitment to enhancing capabilities against extremism of any form.
During his visit, Tugendhat is scheduled to meet with the National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval, and visit the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to discuss shared challenges related to child sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as fraud. This visit aligns with the UK government’s recent launch of a Fraud Strategy, which involves establishing a new National Fraud Squad working in cooperation with local forces, international partners including the CBI, and the UK Intelligence Community.
Furthermore, Tugendhat highlighted the importance of the G20 Anti-Corruption Ministerial Meeting in addressing corruption, safeguarding prosperity, and preserving national security. The meeting will contribute to the UK Government’s efforts to implement a new UK Anti-Corruption Strategy. The British High Commissioner to India, Alex Ellis, emphasized the significant opportunities and security challenges stemming from the unique connection between the people of both countries. Ellis stated that joint efforts, such as the Joint Extremism Task Force, are being taken to counter various threats, including pro-Khalistan extremism.
The commitment of the UK to addressing pro-Khalistan extremism demonstrates the deep and enduring friendship between the UK and India. This partnership not only focuses on security but also extends to areas such as migration, the Indo-Pacific region, climate change, and healthcare. As India assumes the presidency of the G20, the collaboration between the two countries becomes even more critical in shaping a secure and prosperous future.
