June 29th 2024.
The UK's Opposition Labour Party is gearing up for the July 4 general election with hopes of winning a mandate to form the government. In light of this, the party has made a strong commitment to eradicate anti-India sentiments within its ranks and foster a robust strategic partnership with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration.
During an annual conference under former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, the party's resolution in favor of international intervention in Kashmir caused a significant backlash and was widely seen as a contributing factor to the loss of British Indian votes in the 2019 general election. Additionally, there have been concerns about some Labour councillors expressing pro-Khalistan views.
Addressing these concerns, Labour Party chair and shadow secretary of state for women and equalities, Anneliese Dodds, assured the South Asian community at a recent 'Political Hustings' event in London that the party led by Keir Starmer has taken necessary steps to eliminate any members with extremist views. She emphasized the party's efforts to work hard and earn the trust of all voters, including the Indian diaspora.
Dodds also urged the "incredible diaspora" community to come forward and share any evidence of anti-India sentiment within the party's ranks, stating that appropriate action will be taken. She reiterated the party's commitment to build a strong and practical relationship with India, not just limited to trade, but also encompassing areas like new technologies, the environment, and security.
On the other hand, the incumbent Conservative Party candidate for Dudley North, Marco Longhi, sparked controversy with a campaign letter claiming to be the only candidate who would speak up for Kashmir in the British Parliament. His opponent, Labour's British-Indian pick Sonia Kumar, was supported by Tory Minister at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Felicity Buchan. Buchan highlighted the importance of the India-UK relationship and the significant contribution of the Indian diaspora in the UK.
She mentioned the ongoing negotiations for a free trade agreement between the two countries and how it's a top priority for both Prime Ministers. Buchan also emphasized the collaborations in various fields like COVID vaccines, defense, and security, indicating the potential for a strong and mutually beneficial partnership between India and the UK.
Liberal Democrat peer and member of the House of Lords International Agreements Committee, Lord Christopher Fox, expressed his disappointment over the stalled negotiations for the free trade agreement. He stressed the UK's interest in linking with India's flourishing economy and its advanced technology.
The Green Party, through their spokesperson for health, social care, and public health, Pallavi Devulapalli, highlighted their new Green Friends of India group, aimed at fostering strong relations between India and the UK. All parties and independent candidates are now in a final push to win over voters, including the significant Indian diaspora, ahead of the voting day on Thursday.
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