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Written question asked by Baroness O'Loan (Crossbench) on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 28 May 2025. It was answered by Baroness Chapman of Darlington (Labour) on Wednesday, 4 June 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

India: Dalits and Stan Swamy

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government what recent discussions they have had with the government of India on the death in custody of Father Stan Swamy SJ, and the continued imprisonment of those allegedly involved in the Bhima Koregaon violence.

Answer

His Majesty's Government extends condolences, first and foremost, to those who knew and worked closely with Fr. Swamy at Jesuit Missions.

Jesuit Missions' work, partnering with organisations to empower local communities and to build a more just and sustainable future, is admirable.

The UK Government takes all allegations of human rights violations very seriously. However, given this is an internal Indian legal matter, the ability of the UK Government to get involved directly on these matters is significantly limited.

The UK Government has a broad, deep and respectful partnership with the Government of India. This includes sharing perspectives on human rights issues and finding common ground.

Our High Commission in New Delhi and our network across India monitor human rights across the country. We engage Indian stakeholders on a range of human rights matters, working with Union and State Governments, and with civil society.

This includes raising issues of concern where we have them.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL7440
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Detainees India Violence Swamy, Stan Dalits
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk