The Bishop of Coventry received the following written answers on 21st June 2023:
The Lord Bishop of Coventry asked His Majesty’s Government:
- what discussions they have had with the government of India on the importance of pluralism and human rights, including freedom of religion; and what assessment they have made of freedom of religion or belief in India.
- what discussions they have had with leaders from civil society in India on the status and experiences of religious minorities in that country.
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con): The British High Commission in New Delhi regularly assesses human rights across India and engages with civil society and religious representatives. We remain committed to defending Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) for all and promoting respect and tolerance between communities. The UK Government has a broad and deep partnership with the Government of India, and we discuss all elements of our relationship, including concerns where we have them. These topics were among issues I (Minister for South Asia) discussed with the Government of India, leaders of faith groups and others during my recent visit to India (27-31 May).
The Lord Bishop of Coventry asked His Majesty’s Government what assessment they have made of the impact of India’s Financial Contribution Regulation Act on UK non-governmental organisations working in that country.
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon: We are aware that some non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have faced difficulties in India due to the use of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) by the Government of India. We understand that some NGOs have had applications to renew their foreign funding licenses rejected, and that such actions have a significant impact on their ability to operate in India. We have discussed issues facing NGOs with the Government of India, and we continue to monitor developments relating to the FCRA, especially its impact on the work of British NGOs in India.
The Lord Bishop of Coventry asked His Majesty’s Government what discussions they have had with the government of India on the impact on freedom of religion of legislation by states of that country prohibiting religious conversion.
Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon (Con): Our network in India continue to monitor developments related to religious conversions, including legislation. The UK Government is committed to defending Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) for all and promoting respect and tolerance between communities. We have a broad and deep partnership with the Government of India, and we discuss all elements of our relationship, including concerns where we have them. These topics were among issues I (Minister for South Asia) discussed with the Government of India, leaders of faith groups and others during my recent visit to India (27-31 May).
The Church of England in Parliament 
You must be logged in to post a comment.