New Delhi, Dec 6 (NationPress) India is optimistic that the United Kingdom will take significant measures against the Khalistan movement, which is prevalent in the nation. The recent sanctions imposed on British businessman Gurpreet Singh Rehal and the Babbar Akali Lehar (BAL) signify the beginning of a series of actions expected in the UK, according to officials.

This crackdown follows a recent dialogue between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer in October, where Modi highlighted the Khalistan issue, emphasizing that violent extremism should not exploit the freedoms afforded by democratic societies.

Intelligence agencies collaborating with their UK counterparts indicate that these measures are crucial for disrupting the financial infrastructure supporting the Khalistan movement emanating from abroad. Notably, this marks the first instance where the UK has applied its Domestic Counter-Terrorism Regime against Singh.

Officials elaborated that numerous businessmen are financially backing the Khalistan movement. Under the guise of legitimate businesses, these individuals facilitate arms purchases and operate online propaganda networks.

Throughout various discussions, both India and the UK have concurred on the necessity to dismantle these financial networks. Substantial funds from businessmen and sympathizers are crucial for sustaining the movement.

An official remarked that the UK has recognized that Khalistani advocates are engaged in violence, often evading accountability under the pretext of free speech.

Officials from the Intelligence Bureau contend that the sanctions represent a significant uplift for India. Cutting off funding is essential, and if such initiatives persist in the UK and Canada, the Khalistan movement could be considerably weakened.

Lucy Rigby, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, stated, “We will not stand idly by while terrorists exploit Britain’s financial system. This landmark action demonstrates our commitment to employing every available tool to obstruct funding for terrorism—regardless of its source. The UK stands firmly with peaceful communities against those promoting violence and hatred.”

Information from India indicates that individuals like Singh have been financing the activities of Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), which has numerous businessmen involved in channeling money into the movement.

When questioned about the motivations of these businessmen, an official explained that they are driven by a belief in the necessity for a separate Khalistan nation to emerge from India. Indian officials frequently express concerns regarding the online propaganda propagated by Khalistani supporters. Businessmen like Singh have long funded the Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), led by Gurpatwant Singh.

The SFJ leader poses a severe threat as he controls the online narrative and has conducted several referendums advocating for a Khalistan nation. He has issued direct threats against India and offered rewards for the assassination of India’s Prime Minister and other high-ranking officials.

The objective is to dismantle the online propaganda, an official noted, adding that to achieve this, financial resources must be substantially curtailed. More actions can be anticipated in the near future, another official mentioned.

The UK is actively identifying these businessmen for sanctions, with the primary goal of tightening the financial avenues available to Khalistani supporters. Following this, steps will be taken against individuals involved in the core modules propagating a violent ideology.

The UK has identified the BKI as the most significant threat and is committed to diligently working towards neutralizing this group within its borders. The initial step was to sanction the BAL, which has close ties to the BKI. These actions represent a significant setback for the BKI, and security officials are hopeful that the organization will soon be severely incapacitated.

The sanctions lead to an immediate freeze of assets. The designation of the BAL implies that all funds and economic resources in the UK owned, held, or controlled by them will be frozen.