Written question asked by Carla Lockhart (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 11 January 2023, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 16 January 2023. It was answered by Andrew Mitchell (Conservative) on Friday, 20 January 2023 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

India: Religious Freedom

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether he has made representations to the Government in India on (a) promotion freedom of religious belief and (b) anti-conversion laws.

Answer: The UK is committed to defending freedom of religion or belief for all and promoting respect and tolerance between communities. We condemn any instances of discrimination because of religion or belief, regardless of the country or faith involved. Reports of violence against religious minorities are a matter for the Indian police and legal system. The British High Commission in New Delhi and our Deputy High Commissions across India regularly meet with religious representatives and official figures. Lord (Tariq) Ahmad, Minister for South Asia, also regularly speaks with the High Commissioner of India, and freedom of religion or belief forms part of that dialogue.

Secondary information