Key Points:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in New Delhi.
- Discussions focused on combating Khalistani terror groups and enhancing India-US security ties.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh raised concerns over Khalistani group SFJ’s activities in the US.
- PM Modi gifted Ganga water from the Maha Kumbh to Gabbard as a symbol of cultural ties.
- Recent attacks on Indian consulates by Khalistani radicals highlight the urgency of the issue.
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a significant meeting with Tulsi Gabbard, the United States’ Director of National Intelligence, on Monday in New Delhi. The discussion came amid India’s growing concerns over Khalistani extremist activities operating from American soil, particularly by the banned group Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) led by Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.
Modi emphasized the need for stronger cooperation between India and the US to counter terrorism, including Khalistani threats. In a social media post after the meeting, he stated, “Glad to welcome Tulsi Gabbard to India. Exchanged views on further advancing the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Both countries are committed to combating terrorism and enhancing maritime and cyber security cooperation.”
India’s Concerns Over Khalistani Activities
Khalistani groups have been responsible for several attacks on Indian diplomatic missions worldwide. In March 2023, Khalistan supporters vandalized the Indian Consulate in San Francisco, replacing the Indian flag with a Khalistan flag and causing property damage. A few months later, in July 2023, an arson attempt targeted the same consulate. These incidents have drawn sharp condemnation from Indian authorities and prompted calls for action from host countries.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also met Gabbard earlier in the day and urged the US to take decisive steps against SFJ’s anti-India operations. Singh highlighted that SFJ’s activities not only threaten India’s national security but also target members of the Sikh community who oppose their ideology.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The meeting between Modi and Gabbard also underscored broader efforts to deepen India-US strategic ties. Topics such as intelligence sharing, counterterrorism measures, and cybersecurity cooperation were key focal points. This is Gabbard’s second meeting with Modi in two months, following their February discussion in Washington, D.C., which set the tone for enhanced bilateral collaboration.
A Symbolic Gesture
During their meeting, PM Modi presented Gabbard with a vase containing water from the sacred Ganga River, collected during the recently concluded Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. The Maha Kumbh witnessed a record-breaking turnout of over 660 million devotees earlier this year, making it one of the largest human gatherings in history. The gift symbolized India’s cultural heritage and its commitment to fostering strong ties with global partners.
The Road Ahead
India has consistently urged international allies like the US to crack down on Khalistani extremist groups operating under the guise of freedom of expression. With escalating attacks on Indian diplomatic missions and diaspora communities abroad, this dialogue marks an important step toward addressing shared security concerns and reinforcing India-US cooperation against terrorism.
