Thank you for contacting me about the treatment of Muslims in India.

I am aware of recent communal violence in Madhya Pradesh and the subsequent demolitions of properties owned by Muslims. This follows previous instances of communal violence in other states, for example in February 2020 and October 2021, which saw tens of people killed and Mosques targeted.

Descent into hatred and mob rule is utterly reprehensible. I condemn all violence and those responsible for instigating and engaging in it must be held to account.

Freedom of religion or belief is a fundamental human right. The British Government should actively engage with the Indian Government on the importance of freedom of religion or belief and the protection of all human rights. Sadly, despite promising to do so, the Prime Minister failed to raise issues around communal violence and human rights breaches during his recent visit to India. This is disappointing.

It is vital that the Government takes a serious and strategic approach to defending religious freedoms. This should include promoting respect and tolerance across different religious and non-religious groups and condemning any instances of religious-based discrimination, regardless of the country or faith involved.

I will continue to monitor this issue and the Government’s approach. Thank you once again for contacting me about this issue.