Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Tulsi Gabbard Meet Amid Rising Concerns Over Khalistani Terrorism

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a significant meeting with U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard in New Delhi, a meeting that occurred shortly after India raised serious concerns with the United States regarding the activities of Khalistani terrorist groups operating on American soil. This convergence of events underscores the growing strategic importance of the India-U.S. partnership in combating transnational terrorism.  

The meeting, which took place on Monday, March 17th, 2025, followed closely on the heels of discussions between Gabbard and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, where the issue of Khalistani extremism was prominently addressed. Indian officials, including National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, have expressed deep concerns about the activities of groups like Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) and its leader, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, who they allege are using U.S. territory to propagate anti-India propaganda and incite violence.  

Key Highlights of the Meetings:

• Combating Terrorism:
  • A central theme of both meetings was the shared commitment of India and the U.S. to combating terrorism in all its forms. Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of enhanced cooperation in this area, particularly in addressing the threat posed by Khalistani extremism.  
  • The meetings also covered discussions around the importance of strengthening maritime and cybersecurity cooperation between the two nations.  
• Khalistani Extremism:
  • Indian officials explicitly raised concerns about the activities of Khalistani groups operating in the U.S. and sought stronger action from the American side to curb their activities.  
  • India has provided information regarding anti India activities that are being conducted from American soil.  
• Cultural Exchange:
  • Beyond the security discussions, the meeting also featured a cultural exchange. Prime Minister Modi presented Gabbard with a vase containing Ganga water from the recent Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj. Gabbard in return, presented the prime minister with Tulsi Beads.  
  • This cultural exchange highlights the deep cultural ties that exist between India and many citizens of the United states.  
• Strategic Partnership:
  • The meetings reinforced the strategic partnership between India and the U.S., emphasizing the importance of close cooperation on a range of security and intelligence issues.  
  • Tulsi Gabbards visit, is a part of a multi national tour, that is focused on strengthening relationships.  

Significance of the Timing:

The timing of these meetings is particularly significant, as they come at a time of heightened concern about the activities of Khalistani groups. Recent incidents of vandalism at Hindu temples in the United States, with anti-India and pro-Khalistan graffiti, have added to these concerns.  

The fact that these discussions took place at such a high level underscores the seriousness with which both countries are treating the issue. The U.S. Director of National Intelligence plays a crucial role in coordinating the activities of the U.S. intelligence community, and her presence in India signals a willingness to engage on these sensitive issues.  

Broader Context:

These meetings also take place within the broader context of the strengthening India-U.S. strategic partnership. Both countries share common interests in promoting stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region, and combating terrorism is a key component of this shared agenda.  

The discussions also come after Prime Minister Modi’s trip to Washington D.C. where he met with, among others, Tulsi Gabbard. These meetings show the continuation of the strengthening relationship between the two nations.  

In conclusion, the meetings between Prime Minister Modi and Tulsi Gabbard highlight the growing importance of the India-U.S. partnership in addressing shared security challenges. The focus on Khalistani extremism underscores the determination of both countries to work together to combat terrorism and promote stability