Jaishankar Raises Concerns Over Pro-Khalistan Radicalism in UK During Cross-Party Meetings

During his discussions with the leaders of that nation, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar brought up India's longstanding worries over pro-Khalistan radicalism in the UK, emphasizing that they should be vigilant against the exploitation of freedom of speech and expression.

Jaishankar called his five-day visit to the UK "timely" at the end of it on Wednesday, after a number of cross-party meetings and "substantial progress" on the continuing talks for a free trade deal.

Prior to his departure, the minister gave some insights from his talks with the leaders of the UK Cabinet and Opposition on a wide range of bilateral and global problems at a media briefing at the High Commission of India in London.

During his discussions with UK Home Secretary James Cleverly and National Security Adviser (NSA) Tim Barrow, among the subjects discussed were India's worries over pro-Khalistan radicalism in relation to the security of its diplomats in the nation.

"We have long-standing concerns about various forces, including those who propagate Khalistan, engaging in extremist and occasionally even violent activities," Jaishankar said.

"As a fellow democracy, we certainly recognize the value of freedom of speech and expression, but we have been working to make the government here aware that these rights should not be abused," he added.

He stated that the "gravity of the situation is sharply recognised" in reference to the violent protests that took place at India House in March. India expects that its diplomatic mission will be given the necessary protection to carry out its activities without hindrance and that there will be a "firm stance against the advocacy of violence and extremism."

When asked whether the 14th round of FTA discussions would be the last, the EAM said, "We have made substantial progress, but I don't think it would be prudent of me to put timelines or make predictions." I believe that all parties are well aware of the significance of the free trade agreement and will do every effort to reach it. Thus, we must accept things as they come. Jaishankar claimed that during his first bilateral meetings with David Cameron, the recently appointed UK Foreign Secretary, they discussed a variety of regional concerns, including the conflict between Israel and Hamas in West Asia and the crisis between Russia and Ukraine.

Additionally, he said that Cameron gave him a cricket bat that was autographed by the Indian and English cricket teams, a gesture he called "very special."

A cricket bat autographed by batting great Virat Kohli was given to the UK prime minister earlier on Sunday during his meeting with Rishi Sunak at 10 Downing Street.

In general, I believe that our visit was both necessary and relevant since face-to-face communication plays a significant role in fostering international understanding. He expressed his satisfaction, saying, "That in and of itself is a statement of the closeness of our ties today. The British system made an effort to engage at all the relevant levels from the prime minister downwards."

In addition, Jaishankar emphasized the nonpartisan character of the two parties' cooperation, citing his extensive conversations with shadow foreign secretary David Lammy and leader of the opposition Labour Party Keir Starmer.

The "momentum" behind India's growth story, the realities of relations with China, and the emergence of a "more authentic" India were among the many topics he covered during his final engagement, an in-conversation session titled "How a billion people see the world" organized by Wilton Park at the Royal Overseas League in London.