The UK government has been urged to intervene for Jagtar Singh Johal, who was acquitted of charges in India but remains detained facing more severe allegations. There are concerns about the credibility of the evidence against him, and calls for immediate diplomatic action are increasing. Activists advocate for his release and reunification with his family, emphasizing the human rights implications of his continued detainment.
The British government has been urged to intervene on behalf of Jagtar Singh Johal, a Sikh activist who has been detained in India since 2017. After his acquittal in a Punjab court, there is growing concern over the multiple federal charges still pending against him. Mr. Johal was arrested during a trip to India for his wedding, reflecting the troubling circumstances surrounding his detention.
Despite being acquitted of one charge, Mr. Johal continues to face potential decades of imprisonment due to further legal proceedings. West Dunbartonshire MP Douglas McAllister emphasized the necessity for immediate diplomatic action to secure Mr. Johal’s release and reunite him with his family in Dumbarton. He highlighted that the lack of credible evidence against Mr. Johal should facilitate his return home.
Reports indicate that Mr. Johal has suffered torture during his detention, allegedly including electric shocks, and he faces the death penalty due to his advocacy for Sikh rights. He contends that he was coerced into signing a blank confession and making a video that was subsequently broadcast on Indian television. Currently, he is confined in a Delhi prison under solitary conditions since 2019.
In 2022, a United Nations panel affirmed that Mr. Johal’s detention was arbitrary, further complicating his legal situation. Dan Dolan from Reprieve stressed that despite his acquittal, Mr. Johal faces continued threats of capital punishment due to other duplicate charges without credible evidence supporting the allegations. The absence of concrete proof has been acknowledged in court findings.
The Sikh Federation praised Mr. Johal’s acquittal as a significant advancement toward his release, urging the UK government to maintain pressure on Indian authorities. Dabinderjit Singh emphasized the importance of this development in light of the ongoing legal challenges. He indicated that the UK government must act swiftly to facilitate Mr. Johal’s return to his family as he begins married life.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) expressed support for Mr. Johal following the recent legal progress. A spokesperson affirmed the UK government’s dedication to advocating for a timely resolution in Mr. Johal’s case and ongoing assistance for him and his family. The Foreign Secretary recently met with Mr. Johal’s brother and representatives from Reprieve to discuss this matter.
In summary, the call for UK governmental intervention in Jagtar Singh Johal’s case highlights the ongoing challenges facing a British citizen held in India despite his recent acquittal. Advocacy from MPs and organizations stresses the need for immediate diplomatic efforts to secure his release from prolonged incarceration. Mr. Johal’s situation reflects broader issues of human rights and justice that require attention from the UK government to ensure a fair outcome.
Original Source: www.independent.co.uk
