As the United Kingdom approaches a pivotal election, the voices of British Indians are growing louder, demanding attention and representation in political discourse. Historically, our communities have felt overlooked, but we now stand as the largest ethnic minority group, wielding significant influence in swing constituencies. The recent Uxbridge by-election serves as a testament to our electoral power, where the Indian community played a decisive role in securing a narrow win for the Conservatives. For political parties aiming to secure our votes, it is crucial to acknowledge our perspectives on how the UK should engage with India, our ancestral home.
India, often celebrated as the world’s largest democracy, faces scrutiny regarding its democratic credentials, even in light of the positive outcomes from the 2024 Lok Sabha election. The Indian government's unpredictable foreign policy stances on issues like Gaza and Ukraine, coupled with concerns over human rights and democratic principles, pose challenges for collaboration with Western governments. The ongoing negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and India further underscore the complexity of this relationship. Amid global turmoil, the UK must prioritise human rights and democracy in its foreign policy to ensure a stable and fruitful partnership with India.
A recent survey by the Platform for Indian Democracy revealed that 54% of British Indians are concerned about India’s current trajectory. The Modi Mirage report, based on a GlobeScan poll, found that 90% of respondents in the UK believe human rights should be a condition for industrial and commercial investments in India. Furthermore, 87% of UK respondents in the GlobeScan poll advocate for the UK government to champion human rights in India, with almost half deeming it very important. A GQR survey highlighted that British Indians desire less division in politics, both domestically and internationally, with 65% expressing concern over the Leicester riots and the potential for such violence to spill over into the UK.
To meet the expectations of British Indians, the incoming UK government must take a firmer stance on India’s democratic principles. This includes negotiating an FTA that incorporates provisions to protect these principles and fostering international cooperation on climate change, peace, human rights, and the global economy. Publicly addressing human rights violations and democratic backsliding in India should be a priority. By doing so, the UK can promote a relationship grounded in mutual respect for democratic values and human rights.
British Indians overwhelmingly reject the divisive politics emerging in India and seek a UK government that holds the Indian government accountable for its democratic credentials. With significant political attention directed towards our community in the lead-up to the general election, it is imperative that the incoming government listens to our voices and reflects our views in its foreign policy.
We, British Indians, remain steadfast in our commitment to the values of diversity and inclusivity that once forged India’s democracy. These values, cherished both in the UK and India, are not just aspirational but essential to our identity. In an increasingly polarized world, we call on our government to rise above and champion democracy, at home and abroad.
In conclusion, the incoming UK government has a unique opportunity to reshape its foreign policy with India, aligning it with the values that British Indians hold dear. By advocating for human rights, democratic principles, and ethical diplomacy, the UK can strengthen its relationship with India while upholding the ideals that both nations strive to achieve.
