§ Lord Hyltonasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they are discussing with the government of India the State of Gujarat's "Freedom of Religion" legislation and whether it infringes existing conventions on human rights; and, if not, whether they will do so as a matter of urgency. [HL2350]
§ Baroness AmosWe are aware of Gujarat's Freedom of Religion Bill, which we understand has now passed into law.
India is a secular country and the right to freedom of religion is enshrined in its constitution. But we are concerned that this legislation might in practice discourage Gujarati citizens from adopting the religion of their choice, and as such might limit their religious freedoms as outlined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which India has ratified.
We have had no discussions with the Government of India on this issue. But our High Commission in New Delhi will closely monitor the implementation of this law by the Gujarati authorities, and we will raise it with EU Partners.