Former UK Prime Minister and current British Foreign Secretary, David Cameron, delivered a speech in the House of Lords addressing the issue of religious conflict in Manipur, India.
In response to a question from the Lord Bishop of Winchester regarding the state of religious freedom in India, Cameron acknowledged the religious dimension of the strife.
On the topic of religious freedom in India and the situation in Manipur, UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron stated, “It is essential to recognize the religious aspects of some of this strife.
While it may sometimes have communal, tribal, or ethnic origins, religious factors often play a significant role.”
Cameron highlighted instances where the UK government has raised concerns about religious freedom with the Indian government, stressing the importance of continuing such discussions.
He also referenced a report by David Campanale, which shed light on the destruction of churches among both valley dwellers and hill tribes in Manipur.
Lord Singh of Wimbledon expressed apprehensions about religious intolerance in India, citing incidents like the Ayodhya riots and the persecution of Christians and Sikhs.
He urged for religious freedom to be prioritized in the Commonwealth Charter, a sentiment Cameron endorsed.
Later, Lord Purvis of Tweed scrutinized the terms of the UK-India trade deal concerning media, data, and telecoms. He emphasized the necessity of mutual transparency in addressing human rights issues.
In conclusion, Cameron’s address underscored the importance of acknowledging and addressing religious conflicts and promoting religious tolerance and freedom, both in India and internationally.