The Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, has secured a strong mandate in Britain, setting the stage for a new era in UK-India relations, historically strained by issues like Kashmir.
Previously, Labour, particularly under Jeremy Corbyn, took a more assertive stance on human rights and Kashmir compared to other UK parties. In 2019, they passed a motion criticizing India’s actions in Kashmir after the revocation of its special status. This move sparked controversy, with India rebuking it as ill-informed.
Several Labour MPs of Indian origin faced backlash for the resolution, viewed by many as anti-India. Corbyn’s suspension from the party in 2020 further complicated matters, though he won re-election as an Independent.
Now, under Starmer’s leadership, Labour aims to mend relations. Their manifesto pledges a fresh start, advocating for a new strategic partnership with India, including a free trade agreement and deeper collaboration in security, education, technology, and climate change.
Recently, Labour’s foreign secretary, David Lammy, stressed continuity in engaging with India, highlighting its economic importance and potential for enhanced bilateral ties. He called for a reset in UK-India relations, criticizing the Conservative Party’s past failures to deliver on promises made to India.