LONDON: The United Kingdom's Security Minister, Tom Tugendhat, has revealed a funding initiative of £95,000 (approximately Rs 1 crore) aimed at enhancing Britain's capabilities in dealing with 'pro-Khalistan extremism'. This announcement was made during Tugendhat's three-day official visit to India, commencing on August 11th.
This step is particularly significant against the backdrop of mounting concerns in India over the escalating activities of pro-Khalistani groups operating within the UK. The British High Commission disclosed this development in a statement detailing Tugendhat's visit, during which he is focused on bolstering bilateral collaboration on security initiatives and is also slated to participate in the G20 anti-corruption ministerial meeting.
During a meeting with India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, Tugendhat unveiled the funding earmarked to reinforce the UK's capacity to address the challenge of 'pro-Khalistan extremism'. This £95,000 investment is designed to enhance the British government's comprehension of the threat posed by this form of extremism, synergizing with the ongoing cooperative efforts between the two nations through their joint-extremism task force.
Tugendhat underscored the enduring friendship between India and the UK, labeling it a "living bridge", and acknowledged the shared opportunities for making the world safer and more prosperous, given their status as the world's oldest and largest democracies. He emphasized the importance of a more profound partnership between the two countries to more effectively combat security threats, irrespective of their manifestation.
The Security Minister also expressed his enthusiasm for attending the G20 meeting, emphasizing the detrimental impact of corruption on prosperity, society, and national security. He commended India's role in presiding over the G20 anti-corruption ministerial meeting, aimed at reinforcing global resilience and curbing the destructive influence of corruption.
As part of his itinerary, Tugendhat is scheduled to visit the headquarters of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) before heading to Kolkata for the G20 meeting. During his CBI visit, he will engage in discussions concerning shared challenges posed by child sexual exploitation and abuse, as well as fraudulent activities. Furthermore, Tugendhat is set to meet with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.
In summary, the UK's commitment to allocating £95,000 in funding underscores its determination to collaborate with India in countering pro-Khalistan extremism. This gesture not only strengthens bilateral ties but also highlights the shared resolve of these two democracies in addressing evolving security challenges.
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