Modi Held Accountable in UK House of Lords Over Human Rights, Minority Issues

In a historic session at the UK House of Lords, thirteen Members of Parliament from various political parties expressed deep concern over human rights violations, oppression of minorities, and the rise of Hindu nationalist policies in India under Modi government. The discussions highlighted multiple issues, including the misuse of religious freedom laws, media censorship, and state repression in regions such as Punjab, occupied Kashmir, and Adivasi areas.

The Lord Bishop of Guildford warned about the exploitation of religious freedom laws against Christians and Muslims, while Lord Ashfaq Mohammed cited Amnesty International’s 2024 report, drawing attention to the arrests of journalists, the practice of “bulldozer justice,” and state oppression in Punjab and Kashmir. Lord Singh of Wimbledon spoke about the demolition of the Babri Masjid, Home Minister Amit Shah’s controversial speech labeling minorities as “termites,” and the reported torture of a British Sikh while in Indian custody.

Lord Harris of Pentregarth highlighted the heavy military presence in Adivasi regions such as Bastar, Chhattisgarh, where one soldier is deployed for every nine civilians. The UK-India trade deal also came under sharp criticism, with Lord Porous of Tweed condemning the absence of human rights protections in the agreement. Lord Farmer questioned whether the deal provides any guarantees for the protection of minorities, particularly Christians.

Baroness Chapman of Darlington, the UK Foreign Secretary, explained that the government prefers to address human rights issues with India through “quiet diplomacy.” Meanwhile, Baroness Thornton called on India to sign international human rights treaties and to end discrimination based on caste and religion.

Concerns were also raised about Hindu nationalism, with the Earl of Courtown referencing Home Office reports that identify it as an extremist threat even within the UK. The Lord Bishop of St Albans voiced alarm over media censorship and the persecution of religious minorities in Kashmir. Both the Lord Brooke of Nightingale and Viscount Hanbury stressed that India’s democratic reputation is seriously damaged by these actions and that the country’s claims to democracy are incompatible with ongoing state repression.

Defending the UK government’s approach, Baroness Bloomfield stated that human rights concerns are raised privately with Indian officials. The session concluded with acknowledgment that India’s international reputation, especially in the UK, Europe, and the West, is deteriorating, resulting in growing diplomatic isolation.

Read More: Russia Becomes First Country to Accept Taliban Government