A groundbreaking report on Hinduphobia in Scotland has drawn significant attention, shedding light on the systemic challenges faced by the Hindu community. The study, presented by the Gandhian Peace Society (GPS), marks a pivotal moment in the recognition and discussion of anti-Hindu discrimination in the UK.
Historic Report Gains Parliamentary Attention
On February 14, 2025, the Scotland Holyrood’s Cross-Party Group (CPG) on Challenging Racial and Religious Prejudice officially accepted the comprehensive report titled “Hinduphobia in Scotland: Understanding, Addressing, and Overcoming Prejudice.” This marks the first UK parliamentary-recognized study addressing Hinduphobia, a term that encapsulates anti-Hindu prejudice and discrimination.
The report combines statistical data with personal testimonies from Scotland’s Hindu community, presenting a nuanced view of the challenges faced by Hindus in the country. The research was spearheaded by Anuranjan Jha, the President of the Gandhian Peace Society, with contributions from Dhruva Kumar, Sukhi Singh Bains, and Ajit Trivedi. Special input was provided by Neil Lal, President of the Indian Council of Scotland.
Key Findings and Acknowledgement
The findings of the study were discussed in a meeting convened by Professor Peter Hopkins and chaired by Foysol Choudhary, a member of the Cross-Party Group. The meeting included representatives from various religious communities, such as Jewish, Muslim, and Hindu groups, reflecting a collaborative effort to address prejudice across cultures.
Professor Hopkins expressed his approval of the report’s depth and detail, emphasizing the importance of understanding the multifaceted nature of discrimination. Foysol Choudhary also praised the Gandhian Peace Society for its efforts to bring Hinduphobia to the forefront of public discussion, acknowledging the urgent need to address these issues.
Impact on Daily Life
Dhruva Kumar, General Secretary of the Gandhian Peace Society, underscored the significance of the report’s findings. He stressed that Hinduphobia is not only an issue of social concern but also one that impacts the daily lives of many Hindus in Scotland. The report reveals that this prejudice extends across various sectors, including workplaces, educational institutions, and public spaces.
The study’s findings are expected to spark further conversations and policy initiatives aimed at combating Hinduphobia and promoting greater understanding and tolerance within Scottish society. The Gandhian Peace Society hopes that this report will lay the foundation for systemic change, ensuring that Hindus are treated with the same respect and dignity afforded to all communities.
