In a key move ahead of the upcoming British elections, the Hindu community in the United Kingdom has issued its first-ever manifesto.
The collective effort by Hindu organisations aims to present a unified voice to parliamentary candidates and the future government, outlining seven key assurances that reflect the community’s needs and aspirations.
The Hindu Manifesto 2024, as it is titled, seeks to ensure the protection, promotion, and progress of Hindu values and interests within the broader fabric of British society.
A statement accompanying the manifesto emphasized the importance of these assurances, stating, “These assurances aim to ensure the protection, promotion and progress of Hindu values and interests within the broader fabric of British society.”
Among the assurances highlighted in the manifesto are:
1. Recognition of Anti-Hindu Hate: The manifesto calls for anti-Hindu hate to be recognized as a religious hate crime and for the proscription of organisations and individuals engaged in such activities.
2. Protection of Places of Worship: Ensuring the safety and sanctity of Hindu temples and other places of worship is a priority.
3. Access to Fair Education: The manifesto demands fairer educational opportunities and access for the Hindu community.
4. Equal Representation and Opportunities: There is a call for equal representation and opportunities for Hindus in various sectors.
5. Streamlining Immigration: Improving and simplifying immigration processes for Hindus is another key assurance.
6. Healthcare and Social Care: The manifesto stresses the need for better healthcare and social care services for the Hindu community.
7. Acknowledging Dharmic Values: It calls for the recognition and protection of Dharmic values within British society.
Vinod Tikoo, Coordinator ABHI UK ( Advocacy for British Hindus & Indians UK) told WION, “The manifesto represents the aspirations and expectations of the community from the candidates who will be seeking support from the community.”
The UK Hindu community, comprising more than 1 million people, plays a significant role in the country’s economy through contributions in taxes, healthcare, education, and business sectors.
Nitish Rai Parwani, a D.Phil. scholar at the University of Oxford, underscored the importance of the Hindu community in Britain, stating, “Hindus play an important role in the British community. They play important roles in economic, health segments of British society.”
The organisations behind the manifesto include BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha UK, Chinmaya Mission UK, Hindu Council UK, Hindu Forum of Britain, Hindu Forum of Europe, Hindu Mandir Network, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (UK), INSIGHT UK, ISKCON UK, Manchester Marathi Mandal, Mandir Baba Balak Nath, Walsall (UK), National Council of Hindu Temples UK (NCHTUK), National Hindu Students’ Forum (UK), The National Council of Hindu Priests UK, and World Council of Hindus UK (VHP UK).