Racism in UK raised in Indian parliament, EAM expresses concerns

In the backdrop of the allegation of racism by Duchess of Sussex Meghan Markle against the British Royal family and similar problems faced by the first Indian origin women President of Oxford University Rashmi Samant, the issue of racism in the UK was raised in the Indian Parliament on Monday (March 15).

Ashwini Vaishnav, a BJP MP from Odisha raised the matter, seeking govt response on the issue. Rashmi Samant had resigned as the president of the Oxford University's student union, with BJP MP pointing out, "she was cyber bullied to the point that she had to resign and even the Hindu religious beliefs of her parents were publicly attacked by a faculty member"

This is the first time, issues like racism in the UK have been raised in the Indian Parliament. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar expressing concern highlighted that the matter will be taken up with Britain with "great candour".

Jaishankar said,  "Let me commend the honourable member for bringing up such an important issue. I note the sentiment of the house, govt does.  As the land of Mahatma Gandhi, we can never turn our eyes away from racism wherever it is particularly so in a country where we have such a large diaspora."

He explained, "As a friend of the UK, we also have concerns about its reputational impacts. What I do want to say sir is we have strong ties with the UK, we will take up such matter with great candour when required", adding, "we will monitor such development very very closely, we will raise it when required, and will always champion the fight against racism and other forms of intolerance."

Interestingly, earlier this year UK house of Commons's Westminster hall had discussed India's farm laws and with UK MP discussing the ongoing protests regarding it. This had irked New Delhi, who had summoned British High Commissioner and handed over a strong demarche.