Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday emphasised the need for consistency in the global fight against terrorism, stating that “double standards” must have no place in efforts to counter extremism. He also raised concerns about pro-Khalistan activity in the United Kingdom during bilateral talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Chequers, the UK leader’s official country residence.
At a joint press interaction following the meeting, Modi, speaking in Hindi, said that those who exploit democratic freedoms to further extremist ideologies “must be held to account”. His remarks were seen as a pointed reference to Khalistani groups that have targeted Indian diplomatic missions in the UK.
India’s concerns regarding the safety of its diplomats, the extradition of economic offenders, and broader cooperation on security and counterterrorism were central to discussions, according to Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri.
Modi thanked the UK government for its condemnation of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir. Both leaders agreed on the need to step up collaboration against terrorism, radicalisation and extremism, which Misri described as a “shared threat to both societies”.
Misri said India reiterated its concerns over the presence and activities of extremist elements in the UK, noting that they continue to pose threats to Indian diplomatic personnel and incite violence.
“There has been engagement with the UK authorities at multiple levels, and we have seen cooperation in this regard, including during this visit,” Misri added.
Extradition and Legal Cooperation
Modi also called for British support in expediting legal proceedings related to Indian nationals wanted on financial crime charges. This includes individuals such as Vijay Mallya, Nirav Modi, and Sanjay Bhandari, whose extraditions have been pending before UK courts.
Other names cited by Indian authorities include Hajra Memon, the widow of deceased gangster Iqbal Mirchi, and her sons Asiq and Junaid Memon.
“We expect that legal processes relating to these cases will reach their conclusion at the earliest, so that justice can be delivered,” Misri stated.
To enhance institutional cooperation, India’s Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the UK’s National Crime Agency signed a memorandum of understanding. The agreement is aimed at improving collaboration in tackling corruption, serious financial crimes, and organised criminal activity.
Beyond bilateral security concerns, the two prime ministers discussed geopolitical developments, including the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Modi underscored India’s position on respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, noting that “development, not expansionism” should define current global priorities.
Tribute to Victims of Air India Crash
Modi also extended condolences to the families of more than 50 British nationals who were among the 260 people killed in the Air India Flight 171 crash in Ahmedabad on 12 June. The incident has drawn scrutiny in the UK due to administrative issues in the identification of some victims’ remains.
The discussions mark Modi’s first official engagement with Starmer since the latter took office earlier this month.
