The Minister of State for Security of the United Kingdom, Tom Tugendhat has allocated a fund of 95,000 pounds to augment Britain’s capability to deal with the pro-Khalistan extremism. The announcement of the amount, which is equivalent to almost Rs 1 crore, comes after growing concerns for India regarding widespread pro-Khalistani activities in Britain.
Finally Taking Action Against the Pro-Khalistani
The British High Commission informed about the announcement of the allocated fund. Tugendhat is on a three-day visit to India for the G20 anti-corruption Ministerial meeting. Moreover, he will discuss the strengthening of bilateral cooperation and security initiatives. He landed in the national capital on Thursday.
The fund of 95,000 pounds will be used to enhance the British government’s understanding of pro-Khalistani activities in the country and the challenges it might evoke. This initiative will further complement the joint work between London and New Delhi through a joint extremism task force that is already operational.
The British Security Minister stated that the living bridge between India and the UK reflects their deep and enduring friendship. He added that being two of the world’s oldest and largest democracies, both countries have shared responsibility of making the world a safer and prosperous place.
Tugendhat further emphasised that a deeper partnership between UK and India will ensure a more effective solution to security threats. Moreover, he expressed his commitment to working together to “enhance understanding of and capabilities against extremism- whatever form it takes”.
Tugendhat’s Visit to India
The third G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) meeting under the presidency of India will commence in Kolkata, from 9-11 August. The meeting will witness the participation of over 154 delegates from G20 countries, 10 invitee countries, and various international organisations. Tom Tugendhat, in an interview, mentioned that he is delighted to be attending the G20 meeting.
Addressing the upcoming conference, the Minister said that corruption harms prosperity, damages society, and threatens national security. Before heading to Kolkata, Tugendhat is scheduled to visit the headquarters of the Central Bureau of Investigation in New Delhi, to discuss challenges put forward by child sexual exploitation and abuse. According to reports, he will also touch upon the issue of fraud.
He will also meet India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, said the High Commission. “The unique connection between our people brings both huge opportunities and security challenges”, stated Alex Ellis, the British High Commissioner to India. He added that the migration and mobility relationship between the two countries is the pillar of their comprehensive strategic partnership.
The British officials have assured that the security of the Indian High Commission, including its staff, is the highest priority of the United Kingdom.
Pro-Khalistan Movement
Multiple instances of protests by pro-Khalistani groups have occurred in countries such as the UK, Canada, and Australia. Posters with pictures of Indian High Commissioners with death threats have been circulating. Last month, around 30-40 Sikh extremists gathered in front of the Indian High Commission in London which created concerns regarding the safety of Indian representatives.
Similar rallies were demonstrated outside the Indian Consulate in Toronto. India has expressed contempt regarding these instances and questioned why the authorities have not taken any action against the extremist groups. The Indian government has previously asked Britain to launch an investigation against the pro-Khalistani miscreants.
