Did PM Modi and Starmer Discuss the Khalistan Issue Again?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi and Starmer discussed Khalistani extremism.
- Radicalism has no place in democratic societies.
- Condemnation of recent attacks was emphasized.
- Need for legal action against extremism.
- Commitment to international cooperation against terrorism.
New Delhi, Oct 9 (NationPress) During discussions in Mumbai on Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the issue of Khalistani extremism, as reported by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
In a special media briefing following Starmer's visit to India, Misri highlighted that PM Modi reiterated that radicalism and violent extremism have no place in democratic societies and that it is essential to combat these issues within the legal frameworks available. He also offered condolences regarding the recent attack near a synagogue in Manchester.
When questioned if the Khalistani extremist issue was discussed, Misri confirmed, "Yes, it was brought up in previous talks in July and was reiterated today. The Prime Minister stressed that radicalism and violent extremism should not exploit the freedoms afforded by democratic societies and emphasized the necessity for action against them through legal means available to both nations."
He also expressed his condolences regarding the recent attack in Manchester targeting a synagogue.
India has previously expressed concerns about the presence of Khalistani extremists in the UK. Earlier this year, disturbances were reported outside the Chatham House in London during an event attended by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. A viral video showed a protester approaching the Minister's vehicle, raising security concerns.
This incident is not isolated, as anti-India radical elements have previously organized protests and attacks in London.
In March 2023, India lodged a strong protest with the UK government after Khalistani extremists vandalized the Indian High Commission in London, demanding an explanation for the lack of British security presence that allowed such actions.
During their meeting, PM Modi and Starmer also condemned terrorism and violent extremism, agreeing to confront radicalization. They called for a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and advocated for coordinated international efforts to combat it in accordance with the UN Charter and international law.
The leaders agreed on numerous fronts, including countering radicalization, combating terrorism financing, preventing the exploitation of emerging technologies for terrorist aims, and enhancing cooperation in information sharing and judicial cooperation. They condemned the April 2025 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and committed to strengthening cooperation against globally recognized terrorists and their affiliates.