The rationale behind the establishment of the Platform for Indian Democracy lies in fostering a unified platform to advocate for democracy and individual freedoms in India. The prevailing discourse often portrays the entire British Indian community as supporting the prevailing divisive politics in India, which does not reflect the diverse opinions within the community.

The Platform aims to provide a space where voices within the British Indian community can be amplified in their support for democratic values. We seek to create a movement, particularly among communities and students, and encourage mainstream media to cover stories highlighting democratic backsliding in India.

The key purpose of the Platform for Indian Democracy is to mobilise the Indian community in the UK to collectively advocate for a secular and democratic India. This purpose arises from the observed decline in democratic values and the suppression of individual freedoms in India. Institutions designed to check and challenge the government have been weakened, with attacks on independent media, opposition leaders, and activists becoming commonplace. Additionally, the divisive rhetoric of Hindutva ideology is contributing to polarisation inIndia.

The Platform aims to address these challenges by providing a platform for progressive voices within the British Indian community to amplify their concerns and advocate for democratic principles. We seek to counter the prevailing narrative and emphasise the importance of preserving India's secular and democratic fabric. Through activism, reframing narratives, and engaging with mainstream media, we endeavour to build a strong movement that underscores the significance of democratic institutions and individual freedoms in India.

The key people behind the Platform are like-minded progressive British Indians who are deeply committed to the democratic values upon which India was founded. They are alarmed by the ongoing democratic backsliding in India and have come together to establish thePlatform.

This group of individuals combines volunteer-driven passion with professional online and offline campaign capabilities, supported by dedicated staff. They are uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between the reality of the Indian community in the UK and the advocacy needed in India. Additionally, they bring the best mobilisation and campaigning expertise globally for their efforts to promote democratic values and individual freedoms in India.

Yes, the Platform is a non-political platform. It remains agnostic of which political party or leader holds power in India. The primary focus of the Platform is to protect and promote democratic values in India, irrespective of the political landscape. By maintaining anon-political stance, we can engage a broader spectrum of individuals who are concerned about the erosion of democratic principles in India, regardless of their political affiliations.This approach allows us to advocate for democratic rights and freedoms without being entangled in partisan politics, thereby ensuring its credibility and effectiveness as a platform for fostering democratic discourse and activism.

The Indian diaspora has become a significant political force both within India and abroad.Political parties actively court diaspora support during elections, recognizing its electoral impact and economic contributions. Diaspora members, maintaining strong ties to India, can demand accountability from the government on issues such as governance, human rights, and economic development. As an essential constituency, the diaspora's role in promoting Indian culture, fostering economic partnerships, and advancing diplomatic objectives underscores the government's need to address its concerns.

To fight for the values of inclusivity, diversity, and democracy in India from here, thePlatform for Indian Democracy proposes a strategic approach involving community organising, parliamentary engagement, campus organising, and media and communications efforts. This includes mobilising the British Indian community, engaging with UK Parliament for diplomatic pressure, student activism, and creating a powerful counter-narrative through media and communications channels.

The Platform for Indian Democracy is primarily funded by a group of like-minded individuals who are committed to upholding India's democratic values. As a volunteer-driven organisation, we also actively work on fundraising efforts to sustain and scale up our initiatives. This dual approach allows us to maintain independence and integrity while ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of our advocacy for democratic principles in India.

The responsibility for democratic backsliding in India extends beyond individual leaders or political parties and encompasses any entity that undermines the pillars of democracy. These pillars include the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government, as well as the free press and civil society. Any party or political affiliation that undermines these fundamental principles bears responsibility for democratic erosion. Thus, it is crucial to holdall actors, regardless of their political affiliations, accountable for their actions that contribute to the weakening of democratic institutions in India.