India Asks UK To Take 'Proactive Action' Against Pro-Khalistan Extremists

India on Wednesday (12 April) conveyed its concern to United Kingdom over misuse of UK's asylum status by pro-Khalistan elements and also sought proactive action against Khalistani extremists.

During the fifth India-UK Affairs Dialogue (HAD) held in New Delhi on Wednesday, India also raised concerns over the breach of security of Indian High Commission in London last month.

In the meeting, Union home secretary Ajay Kumar led the Indian delegation while the UK delegation was led by UK Home Office permanent secretary Matthew Rycroft.

The meeting was also attended by other senior officials of both the countries.

"During the meeting both sides reviewed the ongoing cooperation and identified further steps that can be taken to explore opportunities and synergies in advancing cooperation in counter-terrorism, cyber security and global supply chains, drug trafficking, migration, extradition, anti-India activities in UK including Pro-Khalistan Extremism among other issues," the Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement on Friday.

"The Indian side specifically conveyed its concerns on the misuse of UK’s asylum status by the Pro-Khalistani elements to aid and abet terrorist activities in India and requested better cooperation with UK and increased monitoring of UK based Pro-Khalistan Extremists and take appropriate proactive action," the ministry said.

Further, India’s concerns over the breach of security of Indian High Commission were also emphasised, it added.

The incident occurred on 19 March, when protesters carrying 'Khalistan' banners removed the Indian national flag from the High Commission building in London.