Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Mar 17: India has raised serious concerns about the activities of anti-national elements operating abroad, particularly the pro-Khalistani group Sikhs for Justice (SFJ), which has been actively engaged in subversive activities in the United States.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged the US government to take firm action against SFJ and similar groups, emphasizing the need to curb their influence and protect global security interests, according to sources.
On Monday, Singh met with US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in New Delhi to discuss the growing India-US strategic partnership, focusing on defence collaboration, intelligence-sharing, and counterterrorism efforts.
Expressing his views on social media, Singh stated, "Happy to have met the US Director of National Intelligence, Ms. @TulsiGabbard, in New Delhi. We discussed a wide range of issues, including defence and information-sharing, to further deepen the India-US partnership."
According to an official statement, the meeting underscored the importance of strategic security cooperation as a key pillar of the India-US global partnership. Both leaders reviewed progress in joint military exercises, defence industry collaboration, and maritime intelligence exchange. They also explored opportunities for cooperation in cutting-edge defence technologies and enhancing supply chain resilience.
Gabbard’s visit to India marks the first high-profile engagement by an official from the Donald Trump administration. Prior to meeting Singh, she held discussions with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, focusing on strengthening intelligence-sharing and security cooperation.
She also attended a confidential gathering of international intelligence officials hosted by India, with participants from the US, UK, and Canada. The agenda included counterterrorism strategies, intelligence coordination, emerging technological threats, and Indo-Pacific stability. Discussions also covered global security concerns, including the Russia-Ukraine war and escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Meanwhile, tensions escalated further after a Hindu temple in California was defaced with "anti-India" slogans by pro-Khalistani agitators on March 9. India strongly condemned the act, with Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal calling it "reprehensible" and urging local authorities to ensure the protection of religious sites.
Gabbard’s itinerary includes visits to Japan, Thailand, and France, signaling broader international security engagements.