India hails UK sanctions on Khalistani-linked entities

India on Monday welcomed the United Kingdom’s decision to impose sanctions on individuals and groups linked to pro-Khalistani terror outfit Babbar Khalsa, calling it a significant step in curbing terrorism and illicit financial networks.

“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 curb illicit financial flows and transnational crime networks,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal responded to a question on the UK’s action against Gurpreet Singh Rehal and the outfit Babbar Akali Lehar.

He further said “such individuals and entities” pose a threat not just to India and the UK, but to people across the world. “We look forward to continuing to work very closely with the UK in further strengthening our counter-terrorism and security cooperation,” Jaiswal said.

The UK government had on December 4 imposed an asset freeze and director disqualification on Rehal, who is suspected of involvement with Babbar Khalsa and Babbar Akali Lehar. HM Treasury also froze the assets of Babbar Akali Lehar for promoting and supporting the proscribed terrorist group.

British authorities say Rehal engaged in recruitment, financing and procurement of weapons for these organisations. Under the sanctions, all funds and economic resources owned or controlled by Rehal or Babbar Akali Lehar in the UK have been frozen, and UK entities are barred from providing them financial services without Treasury approval.

Rehal is also prohibited from acting as a company director or participating in company management. The UK Government said the action followed close coordination between HM Treasury and policing partners.

Economic Secretary to the Treasury Lucy Rigby said the move demonstrates Britain’s resolve to choke off terrorist financing and protect peaceful communities from extremist networks.