In an exclusive interview to PTI, Sunak said he takes the duty of the government to disrupt and counter violent, divisive ideologies, whatever they may be, very seriously. 

 He said the UK is working closely with its partners in the Indian government to tackle the threat from pro-Khalistan extremism. There have been increasing concerns in India about activities of pro-Khalistani elements in the UK, especially after an attack on the Indian High Commission in London in March. 

 Sunak's comments came days before he visits India to attend the G20 summit on September 9-10. The prime minister's responses to PTI's questions were sent by email. 

 "No form of extremism is acceptable in the UK, and I take the duty of the government to disrupt and counter violent, divisive ideologies, whatever they may be, very seriously," he said. "We are working closely with our partners in the Indian government to tackle the threat from pro-Khalistan extremism and the British police are fully empowered to deal with violent acts," he said, replying to a question on the issue. 

There is a view in Delhi that the Khalistani issue is a stumbling block in deeper India-UK ties. Sunak also referred to a meeting between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and UK's Security Minister Tom Tugendhat last month that was focused on addressing the threat of extremism and corruption. 

 "In August, the UK's Security Minister met Minister Jaishankar in New Delhi to develop our shared work addressing the threat of extremism and corruption," Sunak said.