NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday gave a clear message to UK counterpart Keir Starmer, urging him to take action against “extremist ideology” that “misuse democratic freedoms to undermine democracy”. The statement comes amid rising influence of pro-Khalistanis in Britain.Speaking in London after the free trade agreement was signed, PM Modi said, “We express gratitude to PM Starmer and his Government for strongly condemning the Pahalgam terror attack. We are of one opinion that there is no place for dual paramter in the fight against terrorism.”Also read:India-UK trade deal signed – All about the FTA“We also agree that elements with extremist ideology can’t be allowed to misuse democratic freedom. Those who misuse democratic freedoms to undermine democracy itself, must be held to account,” he added.

Addressing the extradition of economic offenders like Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi, the PM said, “Regarding the extradition of econonic offenders, our agencies will work with coordination and cooperation.”Earlier this year, a leaked UK home office report had featured pro-Khalistan extremism as new threats of extremism in Britain. However, it had also noted Hindu nationalism as a threat.The report drew criticism from India over clubbing of the two in the same category. “We’ve seen some reports on this matter. Nature of separatist and extremist threat out of the UK is well known. It should not be condoned or falsely equated,” MEA had said.