Can Extremist Ideologies Exploit Democratic Freedom? PM Modi's Remarks in the UK

London, July 24 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his appreciation to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer for his unequivocal condemnation of the horrific April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam. On Thursday, PM Modi stated that extremist ideologies must not exploit democratic freedoms.

"We are grateful to Prime Minister Starmer and his Government for their strong stance against the Pahalgam terror attack. We share a united stance that there should be no double standards in combating terrorism. We concur that extremist forces cannot be permitted to misuse democratic freedoms. Those who exploit these freedoms to compromise democracy must face consequences," he stated during a press conference alongside PM Starmer.

This statement from PM Modi arises amid increasing worries regarding the activities of Khalistani extremists in the UK, who have previously caused disturbances at the Indian High Commission in London.

He also announced that agencies from both nations will persist in their collaborative efforts regarding the extradition of economic offenders.

Additionally, both leaders discussed various issues of regional and global importance.

"Our discussions have encompassed peace in the Indo-Pacific, the Ukraine conflict, and the situation in West Asia. We advocate for the prompt restoration of stability, emphasizing the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. Today's world necessitates development, not expansionism," PM Modi added.

Prior to PM Modi's visit, India reiterated its concerns to the UK regarding the presence of Khalistani extremists and will continue diplomatic measures to secure the extradition of fugitive criminals.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted that the issue of Khalistani extremists is a matter of concern for India and should equally alarm international partners due to its potential impact on social cohesion.

Earlier this year, incidents involving Khalistani activists disrupted an event attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at Chatham House. A video depicting a protester approaching the Minister's vehicle went viral, raising security concerns.

This was not the first instance of radical anti-India demonstrations in London. In March 2023, New Delhi formally protested to the UK government after Khalistani extremists vandalized the Indian High Commission, demanding accountability for the lack of adequate British security.

During the recent media briefing, Foreign Secretary Misri affirmed India’s ongoing efforts to advocate for the extradition of fugitive criminals, reinforcing that discussions on such matters are ongoing with UK authorities.

This marks PM Modi's fourth visit to the UK.