Keir Starmer reassured that Jagtar Singh Johal, a British citizen imprisoned in India for nearly eight years, has not been overlooked by the government. The Prime Minister’s affirmation coincided with a plea from Jagtar’s brother, Gurpreet, for Starmer to take a firm stance before crucial discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai. Jagtar, a 38-year-old Sikh activist from Dumbarton near Glasgow, was detained in India in November 2017 shortly after his wedding there.
Although Jagtar was acquitted in one case earlier this year, he still faces charges from Indian authorities related to terrorism. Allegations of torture have been raised by the British Sikh, and his incarceration was deemed arbitrary detention by a UN panel in 2022.
In response to queries about Jagtar, the PM stated, “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 raise consular cases at all levels.”
Earlier this week, Gurpreet, Jagtar’s brother, expressed, “I believe the Prime Minister is in the best position to strongly advocate for Jagtar’s release, given the lack of evidence produced in eight years.” He added, “The Indian authorities persistently extend his detention, and if they have not provided evidence in eight years, it is unlikely they will do so. Keir Starmer should assert that it’s time to bring Jagtar back home.”
A spokesperson from the Foreign Office stated, “We are continuously expressing concerns about Mr. Johal’s prolonged detention to the Indian Government on every available occasion, and the Foreign Secretary will soon meet with Mr. Johal’s brother to discuss the ongoing situation.”