Prime Minister Narendra Modi Expressed Concerns Over Pro-Khalistani Extremists In Conversation With British Counterpart Keir Starmer

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi has  conveyed India’s concerns to his British counterpart Keir Starmer, over activities of pro-Khalistani extremists in the UK and said action should be taken against those involved in radicalism and violent extremism.

According to media reports, Modi raised the issue during his talks with Starmer, according to Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. The prime minister had also flagged concerns over the activities of Khalistani elements in the UK during his visit to London in July as well.

“Yes, it is a subject that had come up in the discussions in July. It was flagged again during the discussions held today,” Misri said.

“And the prime minister emphasised that radicalism and violent extremism had no space in democratic societies, and in particular should not be allowed to abuse the freedoms provided by democratic societies,” he said.

Misri said there was a need to move against these elements “within the legal frameworks” that are available to both sides.

“The prime minister also expressed his deepest sympathies once again and his condolences at the Manchester attack, the attack that took place against a synagogue a few days ago in the UK,” Misri said.

Further, India and the UK have  unveiled a series of initiatives including a government-to-government $468 million deal on the supply of lightweight multirole missile (LMM) systems to enhance India’s air defence capabilities.

The new measures to expand the bilateral defence cooperation were announced following wide-ranging talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his British counterpart Keir Starmer.

In his statement to the media, Modi also referred to the growing defence ties between the two countries.

“From defence and security to education and innovation, India and the UK are shaping new dimensions in their relationship,” he said.

Britain’s defence ministry said the $468 million (350 million pounds) contract on the LMM envisaged the delivery of air defence missiles and launchers, made by Thales at Belfast in Northern Ireland, to the Indian Army.