NEW DELHI — In a significant step toward bolstering international security and bilateral relations, India and the United Kingdom convened the 6th Home Affairs Dialogue (HAD) in the national capital on Friday, February 27, 2026. During the high-level meeting, both nations reached a consensus on several critical security issues, specifically identifying the activities of pro-Khalistani extremists and anti-India groups operating within the UK as primary areas of mutual interest and proactive cooperation. The dialogue underscores a shared commitment to neutralizing threats that challenge the sovereignty and internal stability of the two partner nations.
The Indian delegation was led by Rajendra Kumar, Secretary (Border Management), while the United Kingdom’s delegation was headed by Simon Ridley, Second Permanent Secretary of the Home Office. A central pillar of the discussions involved India’s profound concerns regarding recent breaches of security involving Indian dignitaries and diplomatic missions on British soil. The Indian side emphasized the necessity for more robust protective measures and swifter law enforcement action to prevent future incidents, ensuring that diplomatic protocols and the safety of personnel remain uncompromised.
Beyond the focus on extremism, the dialogue covered an expansive range of security challenges that affect both the Asian and European regions. Officials from both sides identified drug trafficking, migration, and cybersecurity as sectors requiring enhanced intelligence sharing and joint operational frameworks. Cooperation in criminal justice and general law enforcement was also prioritized to streamline the extradition of fugitives and the prosecution of transnational criminals. By broadening the scope of the HAD, both governments aim to create a more resilient defence against the evolving nature of global crime and digital threats.
The 6th Home Affairs Dialogue concluded on a note of mutual satisfaction, with both delegations expressing optimism regarding the current trajectory of their security partnership. Both India and the UK agreed to maintain the momentum of these discussions by establishing more frequent communication channels and strengthening their bilateral engagement. As both nations navigate complex geopolitical shifts, this renewed agreement to enhance security cooperation marks a pivotal moment in the longstanding Indo-British strategic relationship.
