The Indian government has strongly condemned a recent report by a British parliamentary committee that accuses India of engaging in transnational repression (TNR) activities within the UK. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed the report's claims as baseless, asserting that they originate from "unverified and dubious sources" with a history of anti-India sentiment.

The UK Parliament's Joint Committee on Human Rights (JCHR) released a report titled "Transnational Repression in the UK," alleging that several countries, including India, have attempted to intimidate and silence individuals and communities on British soil. The report identifies a total of 12 countries, including Bahrain, China, Egypt, Eritrea, Iran, Pakistan, Russia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, as being implicated in such activities. The committee's findings suggest that foreign governments are becoming increasingly bold in their attempts to silence critics in the UK and called for stronger action to support victims.

However, the Indian government has vehemently rejected these accusations, stating that the report relies on discredited sources, particularly those linked to proscribed entities and individuals known for their hostility towards India. The MEA's statement specifically points out the report's reference to allegations made by Sikhs for Justice, a pro-Khalistan group that has been declared an unlawful association under Indian law. The Indian government has urged the UK to address increasing anti-India activities, particularly by Khalistani extremists. These concerns were raised following a security breach involving the external affairs minister in London, emphasizing the need to ensure the safety of Indian missions and bring the perpetrators of attacks on the Indian High Commission to justice.

The UK report claims that foreign states have conducted activities that instill fear, limit freedom of expression and movement, and undermine people's sense of safety. It also suggests that MI5's state-threat investigations have increased significantly since 2022. However, the Indian government argues that the report's reliance on unsubstantiated claims and biased sources undermines its credibility.

The Sikh Federation UK expressed disappointment that the report did not accurately reflect the evidence submitted about the Indian government's actions targeting Sikh activists. They suspect pressure from the UK government influenced the report, as the UK may not want to upset India.

This controversy comes at a time when India and the UK are seeking to strengthen bilateral relations through trade agreements and partnerships. The two countries have recently signed a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) to enhance trade, investment, and economic collaboration. They have also adopted the India-UK Vision 2035 to guide their relationship over the next decade, focusing on areas such as economy, technology, defense, and climate action.

Despite these efforts to deepen cooperation, concerns remain about the activities of extremist groups in the UK and the need for the extradition of economic offenders wanted by Indian law. India has raised concerns with the UK about the growing activities of pro-Khalistan elements and has sought cooperation in bringing economic fugitives to justice.