Keir Starmer reassured the public that the government has not overlooked Jagtar Singh Johal, a British citizen imprisoned in India for nearly eight years. The Prime Minister’s statement followed a plea from Jagtar’s brother, Gurpreet, urging Starmer to take a firm stance before crucial discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai. Jagtar, a 38-year-old Sikh activist hailing from Dumbarton near Glasgow, was detained in India in November 2017 shortly after his marriage there.
Although acquitted in one legal case earlier this year, Mr. Johal still faces charges from Indian authorities related to terrorism. Allegations of torture have been made by the British Sikh, with his detention deemed arbitrary by a UN panel in 2022.
In response to queries about Jagtar, the PM emphasized ongoing efforts, stating, “No, not at all. When I met with Prime Minister Modi in July, the issue was raised. The Foreign Secretary has been engaging with family members, and we consistently address consular matters at all levels.”
Gurpreet Johal, earlier this week, emphasized the need for the Prime Minister to advocate strongly for Jagtar’s release, citing the lack of evidence over the past eight years. He expressed frustration over the prolonged detention and urged Keir Starmer to demand Jagtar’s return to the UK.
A spokesperson from the Foreign Office confirmed ongoing advocacy efforts, stating, “We persist in expressing concerns about Mr. Johal’s extended detention to the Indian government at every opportunity. The Foreign Secretary is scheduled to meet with Mr. Johal’s brother soon to discuss the current situation.”