UK Government Urged to Secure Release of Acquitted British Sikh Activist
Jagtar Singh Johal, a British Sikh activist, was detained in India in 2017 and has recently been acquitted of charges in Punjab, yet still faces federal charges. The UK Government is urged to act diplomatically to facilitate his release. Calls for action highlight the absence of credible evidence against Mr. Johal, who has suffered serious mistreatment while in custody.
The UK Government has been urged to intervene following the acquittal of Jagtar Singh Johal, a British Sikh activist arrested in India in 2017. Johal, from Dumbarton, was detained while in Punjab for his wedding and has faced multiple charges despite a lack of credible evidence. His acquittal in a Punjab case raises hopes for his release, as he still faces ongoing federal trials that could result in a lengthy imprisonment.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy is scheduled to meet with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to discuss trade and investment, alongside Johal’s situation. West Dunbartonshire MP Douglas McAllister emphasized the need for decisive diplomatic action to ensure Johal’s return to his family, as he could otherwise remain imprisoned for decades with no valid evidence against him.
The continued detention of Jagtar Singh Johal raises serious concerns regarding human rights and the judicial processes in India. With his recent acquittal highlighting the lack of evidence in his case, it is essential for the UK Government to exert diplomatic pressure for his release. The situation serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding international law and human rights advocacy.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
