Pressure Mounts on UK Government to Secure Release of Jagtar Singh Johal

Jagtar Singh Johal, a British Sikh activist detained in India since 2017, has been acquitted of one charge but faces ongoing federal charges. The UK Government is urged to act swiftly for his release, as concerns about his well-being and the legitimacy of the charges persist. Advocates highlight the lack of credible evidence against him, calling for heightened diplomatic efforts from the UK.

The British Government is being urged to facilitate the release of Jagtar Singh Johal, a Sikh activist wrongfully detained in India since 2017. Mr. Johal was arrested while attending his wedding in Punjab and has recently been acquitted in one case against him, yet he still faces multiple charges at the federal level. Pressure is mounting for action to ensure his return to the UK and reunite him with his family in Dumbarton.

Mr. Johal’s case has raised serious concerns regarding human rights abuses, as he reportedly endured torture, including electric shocks, and was coerced into signing a blank confession. Since 2019, he has been held in solitary confinement, heightening calls for the UK’s intervention due to the threat of the death penalty in ongoing cases against him. A United Nations panel previously acknowledged his arbitrary detention, indicating the need for immediate diplomatic efforts.

Officials, including Foreign Secretary David Lammy, are in discussions with Indian counterparts to address Mr. Johal’s situation. West Dunbartonshire MP Douglas McAllister articulated the need for decisive action, stating that without intervention, Mr. Johal may face decades of imprisonment despite the absence of credible evidence against him. Advocacy groups emphasize the importance of the UK Government’s role in securing his release and reiterating the lack of sufficient evidence in the cases brought against him.

The Sikh Federation welcomed Mr. Johal’s acquittal as a significant step toward his release and has urged the UK Government to maintain pressure for further progress. Advocacy director Dan Dolan highlighted the challenges faced with the ongoing nine cases against Mr. Johal, asserting that none have presented credible evidence in court and that numerous gaps exist in the prosecution’s claims. The progress in Mr. Johal’s case has prompted renewed hopes for an expedited resolution.

In summary, the British Government is called upon to act swiftly to secure the release of Jagtar Singh Johal, who faces unjust legal battles in India despite recent acquittal. The serious nature of Mr. Johal’s incarceration, marked by allegations of torture and a lack of credible evidence, necessitates urgent diplomatic intervention. Advocacy groups and officials stress the importance of continued pressure to ensure he is reunited with his family and allowed to resume his life.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk