Commons Sense

House of Commons · Westminster Hall

2002 Gujarat Riots

09 February 2022 · 6 other contributors · 2,958 words

Opened by Kim Leadbeater Lab Spen Valley

Responding minister: Amanda Milling

Foreign AffairsReligion & Faith

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Kim Leadbeater raised concerns about 2002 gujarat riots in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.

Key points

  • Concerns raised about the 2002 Gujarat riots leading to at least 1,000 deaths, mostly Muslim, with disputed death tolls.
  • MP highlights the case of four individuals killed on February 28, 2002, when their vehicle was stopped by a mob.
  • MP asks the Government to investigate with Indian authorities for repatriation of remains and to make any unpublished reports public.

Key requests to Government

I ask that the Government take steps to help victims receive justice from the authorities and work towards identifying and returning the remains of those who lost their lives in the riots. The MP asks the Minister to investigate with Indian authorities whether the repatriation of remains is possible and to make any unpublished report into rioting carried out on behalf of the British high commission or Government public.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Kim Leadbeater Lab Spen Valley

I am concerned about the devastating impact of the 2002 Gujarat riots, which led to thousands of deaths and displayed the worst of humanity. The death and destruction during these riots highlight the importance of respect for all religions and living peacefully side by side. The MP is concerned about the lack of agreement on the facts surrounding the 2002 Gujarat riots, which resulted in at least 1,000 deaths, mostly Muslim. The precise death toll remains a matter of dispute despite numerous investigations and inquiries. She highlights the case of Sakil Dawood, Saeed Dawood, Imran Dawood, and Mohammed Aswat, four individuals who were killed on February 28, 2002, when their Jeep was stopped at a roadblock by a mob demanding to know their religion.

Other contributors (6)
  • Barry Gardiner Lab Brent North

    I thank Kim Leadbeater for speaking about these truly unspeakable events in a sensitive manner. She has focused on healing rather than blame, and I support her request that everything possible should be done to help identify the remains of victims.

  • Jim Shannon DUP Strangford

    I congratulate Kim Leadbeater on bringing forward her first Westminster Hall debate and agree that these devastating riots hold lessons for us. It is crucial to remember the 2002 Gujarat riots to teach our children about the consequences of intolerance and anger.

  • Jonathan Djanogly

    I congratulate Kim Leadbeater on securing this debate, which tragically impacted constituents in my constituency who are seeking justice. I will continue to work with her to help identify the remains of their loved ones and bring them back safely.

  • Stephen Doughty Lab Cwmbran

    The MP agrees with the lead MP's sentiments about learning from past events and ensuring they are not forgotten. He also emphasizes the importance of living peacefully.

  • Tan Dhesi Lab Slough

    I commend Kim Leadbeater for securing this important debate commemorating the 20th anniversary of the 2002 Gujarat riots. It is crucial that we acknowledge the importance of respect for all religions and living peacefully side by side.

  • Theresa Villiers Con Down South

    She expressed condolences to the families of victims and highlighted that there have been extensive investigations in India, including convictions and a determination to prevent such events from happening again.

Government Response

Amanda Milling

The Government acknowledged the tragic intercommunal violence in Gujarat, provided consular support to British victims' families, and emphasised their commitment to fostering interfaith understanding. The UK supports a strong relationship with India, raising issues of religious freedom directly and through dialogues with Indian faith leaders. They also highlighted the 2030 road map for advancing strategic partnerships, including healthcare, education, and trade benefits.

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