AI Generated Summary
- “There is a legal process that such requests go through in the other country, and we continue to follow very closely with our partners in the UK,” he said, without naming specific individuals.
- Following the UK leg, Modi will travel to the Maldives on a state visit at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu.
- Both visits are expected to reinforce India’s strategic partnerships, with the UK dialogue focusing on security, trade, and counter-extremism, while discussions in the Maldives will center on maritime cooperation and regional stability.
India has put the issue of Khalistani extremism on the diplomatic agenda ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to the United Kingdom. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, briefing the media on Tuesday, confirmed that New Delhi has formally conveyed its concerns to London, emphasizing that the presence of pro-Khalistan groups in the UK threatens not just India’s security but also social harmony within Britain.
“This is a matter of concern not only to us but should be a matter of concern to our partners as well,” Misri said. “The issue of the presence of Khalistani extremists and organizations associated with them has been raised repeatedly, and we will continue to do so.”
The remarks come in the wake of increased activity by pro-Khalistan groups abroad, including incidents targeting Indian diplomats. Earlier this year, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar was heckled by pro-Khalistan protesters in London during a public event, drawing sharp condemnation from New Delhi.
Extradition Talks on Fugitives Continue
Misri also revealed that India and the UK are engaged in discussions regarding the extradition of several fugitives wanted by Indian law enforcement agencies.
“There is a legal process that such requests go through in the other country, and we continue to follow very closely with our partners in the UK,” he said, without naming specific individuals. Several high-profile economic offenders and separatist-linked figures have taken refuge in the UK in recent years, making extradition a recurring issue in bilateral ties.
Strengthening India-UK Ties
Despite these challenges, Misri underlined the strong and evolving partnership between India and the UK, which was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2021. The two nations have since held frequent high-level political engagements, with a shared vision of expanding cooperation in trade, technology, and security.
Modi’s visit, though brief, is expected to provide an opportunity for both sides to review the “entire gamut of the bilateral relationship,” Misri said.
Two-Nation Diplomatic Tour
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the UK is taking place at the invitation of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Following the UK leg, Modi will travel to the Maldives on a state visit at the invitation of President Mohamed Muizzu. The three-day diplomatic tour begins today, July 23, and concludes on July 26.
Both visits are expected to reinforce India’s strategic partnerships, with the UK dialogue focusing on security, trade, and counter-extremism, while discussions in the Maldives will center on maritime cooperation and regional stability.
