New Delhi [India], December 8 (ANI): The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) welcomed the United Kingdom’s decision to impose sanctions on pro-Khalistan extremist networks linked to the banned outfit Babbar Khalsa, describing it as a significant step in strengthening global counter-terrorism efforts and curbing illicit financial flows.
MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said New Delhi appreciates London’s action targeting individuals and entities involved in anti-India extremist activities. “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 to curb illicit financial flows and transnational crime networks,” he said. Jaiswal added that such individuals pose a threat not only to India and the UK but to people worldwide, and affirmed India’s commitment to working closely with the UK to enhance counter-terrorism and security cooperation.
Last week, the UK government imposed sanctions disrupting the funding mechanisms of Babbar Khalsa. Measures include an asset freeze and director disqualification against Gurpreet Singh Rehal, suspected of involvement in terrorist activities in India. An asset freeze was also announced against Babbar Akali Lehar for promoting and supporting Babbar Khalsa.
According to the UK Treasury, Rehal has been involved in Babbar Khalsa and Babbar Akali Lehar’s activities, including recruitment, financial support, and acquisition of weapons. Babbar Akali Lehar is similarly involved in promoting and recruiting for Babbar Khalsa. All funds and economic resources in the UK owned or controlled by Rehal or Babbar Akali Lehar are now frozen, and Rehal is prohibited from acting as a company director or participating in corporate management.
The sanctions were imposed under the Counter-Terrorism (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019, which allow the UK Treasury to restrict assets and activities of individuals or entities suspected of involvement in terrorism. Babbar Khalsa remains a proscribed terrorist organisation.
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