The MCB has written to the Indian High Commissioner in response to a statement released on 19th September regarding recent events in Leicester. We call for a just view on events and to address the deeper seated issue of Hindutva extremism.
The letter in full reads as follows:
H.E. Mr Vikram K. Doraiswami
High Commission of India India House,
Aldwych London WC2B 4NA
20th September 2022
Your Excellency,
I write to you on behalf of our affiliated organisations in reference to the press release issued from your office on 19th September 2022, regarding the violence we have witnessed in Leicester.
As you will be aware, Leicester is home to a thriving and integrated Indian diaspora of Muslims, Hindus and Sikhs, who have been living together in harmony for over half a century.
The scenes we have witnessed over the last few weeks, however, are deplorable. The question we must ask ourselves, is: what has turned this vibrant community, once a model of unity, into one that is deeply divided, where ordinary people are fearful for their own safety?
Whilst it is right that we condemn the desecration of Hindu symbols, you must represent all Indians and also condemn the deliberate targeting, intimidation and instances of assault of Muslims and Sikhs by large groups of thugs chanting far-right Hindutva slogans, mirroring tactics used by the RSS against communities in India.
There is a clear hesitancy to call out these groups who have instigated this thuggery and their political ideology; which they seem to be attempting to import from India. British Indian communities expect a balanced view from the Indian High Commission, which represents all of the diaspora, which can help heal divisions locally.
I would welcome the opportunity to discuss this matter further, particularly given the potential consequences and impact nationally, of failing to root out the causes of such unrest.
Yours sincerely,
Zara Mohammed
Secretary General,
Muslim Council of Britain