• Source:JND
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During his recent meeting with stressed the urgent need to tackle Khalistani extremism abroad, urging that radicalism and violent ideologies have no place in democratic societies. The discussion, confirmed by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, also touched upon India’s efforts to secure a permanent seat on the reformed United Nations Security Council, with the UK expressing support for the initiative. 

According to Misri, the issue of Khalistani extremism, first raised in talks in July, was revisited during Modi’s discussions with Starmer. “The Prime Minister emphasised that radicalism and violent extremism had no space in democratic societies, and should not be allowed to misuse the freedoms these societies provide,” Misri said. He added that action against extremist groups must operate within the legal frameworks available in both countries.

The government’s insistence on raising the issue follows a series of incidents in the UK, including a security breach during External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to London in March, when protesters disrupted an event at Chatham House. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned the provocative actions, stating: “We deplore the misuse of democratic freedoms by such elements. We expect the host government to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations.”

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Unified Stance On Terrorism 

PM Modi also thanked Starmer and his government for their strong condemnation of the Pahalgam terror attack in India, reiterating that both nations share a unified approach to combating terrorism. “We are of one view that there should be no double standards in the fight against terrorism,” PM Modi said, underlining the importance of a coordinated international response.

Democracy Cannot Be Exploited

PM Modi also brought out the larger principle that radical forces should not be permitted to use democratic rights for destabilisation. "Anyone who tries to destroy democracy in the name of freedom will have to be accountable," he asserted, adding that protecting democratic values implies being on guard against extremist ideologies.

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The discussions also cemented the partnership between India and the UK on trade and strategic issues. In addition to the signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement, the leaders concurred on the need to deal with extremism in legal and diplomatic parameters, reiterating their commitment to a safe and secure bilateral relationship.