Keir Starmer reassured the public that Jagtar Singh Johal, a British man imprisoned in India for nearly eight years, has not been overlooked by the government.

The Prime Minister’s statement came as Gurpreet, Jagtar’s brother, implored Starmer to take a firm stance before his upcoming discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai. Jagtar, a 38-year-old Sikh activist from Dumbarton near Glasgow, was arrested in India in November 2017 shortly after his wedding.

Although acquitted in one case earlier this year, Jagtar still faces charges from Indian authorities, including terror allegations. He has alleged experiencing torture and his detention was deemed arbitrary by a UN panel in 2022.

In response to queries about Jagtar, the PM affirmed, “No, not at all. When I met with Prime Minister Modi in July, his case was raised. The Foreign Secretary has been engaging with his family members, and we consistently advocate for consular cases at all levels.”

Recently, Gurpreet expressed his frustration, stating, “I believe the Prime Minister is in the best position to strongly push for Jagtar’s release since no evidence has been presented in eight years.”

He emphasized, “The Indian authorities continually extend his detention, and if they haven’t provided evidence in eight years, it seems unlikely they ever will. Keir Starmer should assert that it’s time to bring Jagtar back to the UK.”

A spokesperson from the Foreign Office affirmed, “We persistently address concerns regarding Mr. Johal’s protracted detention with the Indian Government at every opportunity, and the Foreign Secretary is scheduled to meet with Mr. Johal’s brother soon to discuss the ongoing circumstances.”