Many British Hindus still feel that Government and decision-makers are failing to address many of their concerns, despite being the third largest faith group. To correct this imbalance and to mobilise the Hindu vote at the next general election, nine Hindu organisations are today jointly launching a Prelude to the British Hindu Charter at the House of Commons.

The Prelude to the British Hindu Charter has been developed after consultations with community leaders in London, Birmingham, Leicester, Preston and other places across the UK. The following issues are highlighted in the Charter:

• Access to public services - Hindus have very limited, if any, access to paid chaplains in hospitals.
• Security for the community - Of the 22 Hindu temples burnt in 1993, not one culprit has been caught.
• Understanding of Hindu needs - Over the last ten years, funding for religious and cultural celebrations has been consistently reduced.
• Restoring the human rights of Hindus - In 2004, these rights were eroded by the Court of Appeal.
• Participation in politics - So far, only six Hindu candidates are standing in the next General Election, and very few in safe seats.

Launching the Charter, Dr Girdhari Bhan, President of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad said: "Hindus in Britain account for over 1.1 per cent of the population and make a tremendous contribution to this country, far in excess of our numbers However, our concerns have been continuously ignored and we strongly feel these must now be addressed."

Ishwer Taylor MBE, President of the Hindu Forum of Britain added: "Hindus do not want preferential treatment just choice and equality in services, funding and facilities. The promoting organisations plan to send a copy to every MP and parliamentary candidates and will inform the community of their response. We are also planning a mass campaign to release the outline Charter to Hindu voters."

Jyotsna Thanki, President of the Hindu Council of Birmingham concluded: "Voting is a most important civic right and yet only 17 per cent of Hindus voted in Brent at the last election. We urge Hindus to get out and vote intelligently as they may have the casting vote in many constituencies."

Top