In a landmark development, a section of British Hindus has launched their first-ever manifesto, highlighting their growing political influence in the UK.
As the country prepares for the general election on July 4, this initiative seeks to outline the community’s aspirations and demands, urging candidates from all political parties to acknowledge and address them.
This article delves into the significance of the Hindu Manifesto, the demographic and political presence of Hindus in the UK, and the historical context of their engagement in British politics.
The Hindu Manifesto: Key Demands and Objectives
The “Hindu Manifesto UK 2024,” launched by leading Hindu organizations in the UK, marks a significant step in the community’s political mobilization. The manifesto is endorsed by 29 prominent Hindu organizations, including BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha UK, Chinmaya Mission, and Iskcon UK. It outlines seven key demands aimed at unifying the voice of the UK Hindu community and urging all candidates to support their cause:
Recognition of Anti-Hindu Hate as a Religious Hate Crime: The manifesto calls for the acknowledgment and legal recognition of anti-Hindu hate crimes, ensuring that such acts are adequately addressed and prosecuted.
Protection of Hindu Places of Worship: Ensuring the safety and sanctity of Hindu temples and religious sites across the UK.
Access to Fairer Education: Advocating for an education system that is inclusive and equitable, providing fair opportunities for all students, including those from the Hindu community.
Equal Representation: Calling for better representation of Hindus in political, social, and economic spheres to reflect their demographic presence and contributions.
Streamlined Immigration Policies: Seeking more efficient and fair immigration policies that respect the rights and needs of the Hindu diaspora.
Healthcare and Social Care: Emphasizing the need for accessible and culturally sensitive healthcare and social services.
Acknowledgment and Protection of Dharmic Values: Promoting the recognition and protection of Dharmic values, which encompass the ethical and moral principles rooted in Hindu philosophy.
Demographic and Cultural Presence of Hindus in the UK
Population Statistics
According to the 2021 Census, there are 1,066,894 Hindus in England and Wales, making up 1.6% of the total population. This marks a significant increase from 552,421 in 2001 and 835,394 in 2011. In Scotland, the Hindu population was recorded at 29,929 in 2021. Over 97% of the UK’s Hindu population resides in urban areas, particularly in the southeast and London, where they contribute significantly to the cultural and social fabric of these regions.
Diversity and Integration
The Hindu community in the UK is diverse, with roots in India, Sri Lanka, East Africa, the Caribbean, Fiji, and Mauritius. Despite this diversity, 96% of UK Hindus identify as of Asian ethnic background, with Indian heritage being the most prevalent. The community’s strong sense of British national identity, reported at 91% in 2001, underscores their successful integration and dual identity as both Indian and British Indian.
Historical Context: Hindu Representation in British Politics
Early Pioneers
The journey of Hindu political representation in the UK began in the late 19th century. In 1892, Dadabhai Naoroji became the first Indian elected to the British Parliament. A Parsi from Bombay, Naoroji was a versatile businessman and a key figure in the Indian independence movement, earning the title ‘Grand Old Man of India.’ His election paved the way for future Indian representation in British politics.
Following Naoroji, Mancherjee Bhownaggree, born in Bombay, became the second Indian to be elected to the UK Parliament in 1895 as a Conservative MP for North-East Bethnal Green. He was re-elected in 1900 but lost in 1906. These early pioneers laid the foundation for future generations of Indian-origin politicians in the UK.
Recent Developments
In recent years, the Hindu community’s political presence in the UK has seen significant growth. In the 2017 general election, eight Hindu MPs were elected to the British Parliament, reflecting the community’s increasing political engagement. Prominent leaders of Indian origin in the British Parliament include Priti Patel, Alok Sharma, Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, and Lord Swaraj Paul.
A historic moment came in 2022 when Rishi Sunak, of Indian origin, became the UK’s first non-white Prime Minister amid political turmoil in the country. Sunak’s rise to the highest political office in the UK symbolizes the growing influence and integration of the Hindu community in British politics.
Political Influence and the 2024 General Election
The launch of the Hindu Manifesto ahead of the July 4 general election marks a strategic effort by the British Hindu community to assert their political influence. With over 1.02 million followers, Hinduism is now the third-largest religion in England. The community wields considerable electoral influence, particularly in urban areas with significant Hindu populations.
The Role of Hindu Organizations
Leading Hindu organizations have played a pivotal role in unifying the community and articulating their collective aspirations. Organizations such as BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha UK, Chinmaya Mission, and Iskcon UK have been instrumental in advocating for the community’s interests and fostering a sense of solidarity.
Community Engagement and Future Prospects
The Hindu Manifesto aims to foster greater political engagement and representation for the Hindu community in the UK. By articulating their demands and aspirations, the community seeks to ensure that their voices are heard and considered in the political discourse. The manifesto’s seven key demands reflect the community’s commitment to promoting fairness, inclusivity, and cultural recognition.
The launch of the first-ever Hindu Manifesto in the UK represents a significant milestone in the political engagement of the British Hindu community. As the country prepares for the general election on July 4, this initiative underscores the growing political influence of Hindus in the UK. With over 1.02 million followers and a rich history of cultural and social contributions, the Hindu community is poised to play an increasingly prominent role in shaping the future of British politics.
By outlining their aspirations and demands, the Hindu Manifesto aims to ensure that the community’s voice is heard and respected. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the British Hindu community’s active participation will be crucial in promoting a more inclusive and representative society.
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