NEW DELHI– India said Tuesday it will persist in raising its concerns with the United Kingdom over the presence of Khalistani extremists and continue diplomatic efforts to extradite fugitive criminals currently residing in the UK.
“The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists and affiliated organizations is something we have repeatedly brought to the attention of our partners in the UK. We will continue to do so,” said Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri during a special media briefing ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the UK, which begins Wednesday.
“This is a matter of concern not only for us but should also be for our partners, as it affects social cohesion and public order in their countries as well,” Misri added.
The comments come in the wake of several recent incidents involving pro-Khalistan agitators in the UK. Earlier this year, disruptive scenes unfolded outside Chatham House in London while External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was attending an event. A video showing a protester running toward the minister’s vehicle as he was leaving the venue went viral on social media, highlighting a significant security lapse.
This was not an isolated episode. In March 2023, pro-Khalistan activists staged violent demonstrations outside the Indian High Commission in London, prompting India to issue a strong protest to the British government. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) demanded an explanation for the absence of adequate British security, which allowed the intruders to breach the High Commission’s premises.
During Tuesday’s briefing, Misri also emphasized that India continues to press the UK on the extradition of fugitive criminals.
“There have been a few cases involving individuals who are fugitives under Indian law and are residing in the UK. These cases remain a matter of discussion between the two countries. We have consistently advocated for their return to face justice in India,” he said. “While there is a legal process to be followed in the UK, we are closely engaged with our counterparts in London on these matters.”
Prime Minister Modi’s upcoming visit will mark his fourth trip to the United Kingdom. During the visit, he is scheduled to hold wide-ranging discussions with newly elected UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the full spectrum of bilateral relations. The leaders will also exchange views on key regional and global issues.
In addition, Prime Minister Modi is expected to meet with King Charles III. Both nations will use the occasion to review progress on the India–UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP), with particular focus on trade and economic cooperation, technology and innovation, defense and security, climate change, health, education, and people-to-people ties. (Source: IANS)
