Labour leader Keir Starmer has affirmed that the government has not overlooked Jagtar Singh Johal, a British citizen imprisoned in India for almost eight years.
Starmer’s statement coincided with a plea from Jagtar’s brother, Gurpreet, for Starmer to take a firm stance ahead of important discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai. The 38-year-old Sikh activist, hailing from Dumbarton near Glasgow, was arrested in India in November 2017 shortly after his wedding.
Although acquitted in one case earlier this year, Mr. Johal, facing terrorism charges, still confronts accusations from Indian authorities. Alleging torture, the British Sikh’s detention was deemed arbitrary by a UN panel in 2022.
In response to queries about Jagtar, the Prime Minister emphasized that the issue has not been disregarded. He highlighted raising the matter during his meeting with Prime Minister Modi and ongoing efforts by the Foreign Secretary to engage with the family. Consular cases are consistently advocated for at all levels.
Gurpreet voiced frustration earlier this week, stating, “I believe the Prime Minister is in the best position to strongly push for Jagtar’s release, considering no evidence has surfaced in eight years.” He expressed doubt about the likelihood of evidence emerging after the prolonged detention.
Calling for action, Gurpreet urged Keir Starmer to demand Jagtar’s return home, emphasizing the need to end the prolonged ordeal.
A spokesperson from the Foreign Office reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing Mr. Johal’s extended detention, noting that the Foreign Secretary will soon meet with Jagtar’s brother to discuss the ongoing situation.
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