Starmer must act now to free jailed blogger Jagtar Singh Johal
- Jagtar Singh Johal has been incarcerated since 2017 and continues to face federal charges despite being cleared of some cases.
- Campaigners are urging the UK Prime Minister to advocate for Johal’s release during his discussions with Modi.
- The meeting is seen as a pivotal moment to address an ongoing human rights violation that has persisted for nearly eight years.
In India, Jagtar Singh Johal, a British citizen and Sikh activist, has been imprisoned since 2017, when he was arrested while attending his wedding. His case has drawn attention from human rights groups and campaigners who argue that his detention is arbitrary, especially as he was cleared of some charges earlier in 2025 but still faces federal-level accusations. Allegations have surfaced regarding his initial confession being obtained through torture, raising serious concerns about the integrity of his legal proceedings. Currently, he is still in custody with the potential for years of legal battles ahead. As of July 2025, Gurpreet Singh Johal, Jagtar’s brother, is appealing to Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, to advocate for his brother's release during upcoming talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Starmer has publicly acknowledged the case and its significance. The meeting is particularly critical given its backdrop of negotiations for a free trade agreement between the UK and India, which places additional diplomatic pressure on the situation. The urgent call for action emphasizes the frustration felt by Jagtar’s family and supporters regarding the lack of tangible results in resolving his situation after nearly eight years. Advocates argue that this meeting presents a unique opportunity for Starmer to address the ongoing human rights violation directly with Modi's administration. Human rights organization Reprieve has declared the detainment as a clear violation of international law. The issues surrounding Jagtar's case have caught the attention of various stakeholders, highlighting the intersections of international relations, human rights advocacy, and legal ethics. The hope is to utilize this high-profile meeting to not only bring attention to Johal’s plight but also to urge for legislative and diplomatic actions that may facilitate his return to the UK and secure justice for him.