London: A leaked report from the UK government’s Extremism Review has identified pro-Khalistan extremism and Hindu nationalist extremism as emerging threats that require further understanding. This marks the first time that Hindu nationalist extremism has been mentioned in such a review.
The report, titled ‘Extremely Confused: The government’s new counter-extremism review revealed’, was authored by Andrew Gilligan and Dr. Paul Scott for the Policy Exchange think tank. It lists nine forms of extremism, including Islamist extremism, extreme right-wing ideology, and environmental extremism.
UK Government’s Response
UK Home Office Security Minister Dan Jarvis, addressing the House of Commons on Tuesday, clarified that the government had not yet formally adopted the leaked report’s findings. He stated:
“It is not entirely clear which version of the report was leaked, and its claims do not represent government policy.”
The review follows UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper’s decision to launch a ‘Rapid Analytical Sprint’ in August 2023 to reassess Labour’s counter-extremism policy.
Key Findings on Pro-Khalistan and Hindu Nationalist Extremism
The report acknowledges that support for a separate Sikh state of Khalistan is not inherently extremist but flags concerns when it leads to advocacy of violence. It also mentions a “growing portfolio of actors of concern” within the movement, including allegations of demonization of Muslim communities and conspiracy theories about British-Indian collusion.
Additionally, the review recognizes global concerns about India’s alleged overseas actions, including accusations of Indian involvement in targeted killings of Sikh separatists in Canada and the United States.
Regarding Hindu nationalist extremism, the report references the Leicester riots of 2022, where tensions between Hindu and Muslim communities escalated into violence. It asserts that key figures from both communities “exploited tensions and incited hate”.
Political Reactions
The Opposition Conservative Party raised concerns over the findings, with Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp questioning the Labour government’s stance on tackling extremism.
Responding on behalf of the government, Dan Jarvis stated:
“Islamist extremism, followed by far-right extremism, remains the biggest threat we face. This ideology continues to shape our counter-extremism and counterterrorism approach.”
The UK Home Office emphasized that the leaked findings had not been formally agreed upon by ministers, and further discussions on counter-extremism policies are ongoing.
Implications for UK-India Relations
The report’s references to Indian extremism-linked issues could further strain diplomatic relations between the UK and India, especially amid previous tensions regarding Sikh separatist activities in Britain.
With the UK government yet to finalize its extremism strategy, the inclusion of Hindu nationalist extremism in this review is likely to spark controversy among Indian diaspora groups and policymakers.
For more updates, stay tuned to The Pragathi News.
