Fighting Khalistan: UK Announces Rupees One Crore Funding Against Extremism

The United Kingdom has announced a new funding of approximately Rs 1 crore or (£95,000) to enhance Britain's capability in addressing 'pro-Khalistan extremism' reported India Today.

This statement was made by the British High Commission amid the UK's Security Minister, Tom Tugendhat's three-day visit to India, which commenced on Thursday (10 August).

Tugendhat's visit to India aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation on security initiatives and to participate in the G20 anti-corruption ministerial meeting.

During a meeting with India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, in New Delhi on Thursday (10 August), Tugendhat unveiled the new funding intended to bolster the UK's capacity to counter pro-Khalistan extremism.

The announcement of this fresh funding arrives amidst mounting concerns in India regarding the escalating activities of pro-Khalistani elements within the UK.

The High Commission announced that the £95,000 investment will augment the government's understanding of the threat posed by "pro-Khalistan extremism," complementing the ongoing collaborative efforts between the UK and India through the joint-extremism task force.

Tugendhat emphasised the enduring friendship between India and the UK, referring to them as the world's oldest and largest democracies, and noted the shared opportunities they possess to contribute to global security and prosperity.

"The living bridge between India and the UK reflects our deep and enduring friendship. As the world's oldest and largest democracies, we have many shared opportunities to make the world a safer and more prosperous place," he said.

He expressed his commitment to collaborating against extremism, regardless of its manifestation.

Furthermore, Tugendhat expressed his enthusiasm about participating in the G20 anti-corruption ministerial meeting, underscoring the adverse impact of corruption on prosperity, society, and national security.

He highlighted the importance of fortifying global resilience and curbing the detrimental influence of corruption.

Prior to his attendance at the G20 meeting in Kolkata, scheduled for Saturday (12 August), Tugendhat is slated to visit the Central Bureau of Investigation headquarters.

Discussions there, will revolve around shared challenges related to child sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as fraud.

He will also meet the National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.