New Delhi: India on Monday welcomed the United Kingdom’s decisive action against extremist elements linked to the Khalistan movement, describing the move as a significant step in strengthening international efforts against terrorism and transnational crime.
The UK government recently imposed sanctions on an individual and an organisation allegedly involved in terrorist activities targeting India. These measures include asset freezes and strict restrictions designed to prevent the flow of funds to extremist networks.
An official spokesperson from India’s Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that such sanctions would curb illicit financial activities and dismantle cross-border criminal operations. The spokesperson emphasised that extremist entities not only threaten India and the UK but pose dangers globally.
“We welcome the steps that have been taken by the UK government to sanction anti-India extremist entities, which strengthen the global fight against terrorism and extremism, and help to curb illicit financial flows and transnational crime networks. Such individuals and entities are not just a threat to India or the UK, but to people across the world,” the spokesperson said.
India also expressed its intention to continue close collaboration with the UK on counter-terrorism and security matters, aiming to further enhance bilateral cooperation in these critical areas.
The new UK sanctions specifically target Gurpreet Singh Rehal, who is suspected of supporting organisations such as Babbar Khalsa and Babbar Akali Lehar. Rehal is alleged to have promoted extremist activities, facilitated recruitment, provided financial services, and assisted in the acquisition of weapons and military equipment. Babbar Khalsa International, a pro-Khalistan militant group, seeks an independent Sikh state in Punjab through violent attacks, assassinations, and bombings.
Under the regulations, all assets and economic resources owned or controlled by Rehal in the UK are frozen, and no individual or company can provide him with financial services without government authorisation. Additionally, he is prohibited from serving as a company director or participating in the management of any company.
These measures mark a firm stance by the UK against anti-India extremist activities and reinforce the broader global effort to combat terrorism and extremist networks.
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