Labour Party chief Keir Starmer is on course to replace Rishi Sunak as the Britain Prime Minister, with election results pointing at a crushing loss for the Conservatives.
India’s ties with the Labour Party have been tumultuous due to their remarks on the Kashmir issue in the past. Their stance has been in stark contrast with the British government’s view that Kashmir is a bilateral matter between India and Pakistan.
Back in 2019, under the leadership of Jeremy Corbyn, the party had passed an emergency motion calling for international observers to “enter” Kashmir and demand the right of self-determination for its people.
It also called for Mr Corbyn to meet the high commissioners of both India and Pakistan to ensure there is “mediation” and restoration of peace and normality to prevent a potential nuclear conflict.
This resolution by the Labour Party was slammed by India as an effort to “pander to vote bank’s interest”.
However, Starmer, while campaigning for these elections, set out to fix the lapses made by his party in the past. His party’s manifesto also included a commitment to pursue a “new strategic partnership” with India, emphasizing the trade agreement.
During meetings with the Indian diaspora and public addresses, Starmer affirmed that Kashmir is an internal issue and will be resolved by India and Pakistan.
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“Any constitutional issues in India are a matter for the Indian Parliament, and Kashmir is a bilateral issue for India and Pakistan to resolve peacefully,” Starmer said during a meeting with Labour Friends of India.
In addition to this , during his poll campaign, Starmer embarked on outreach efforts, denouncing Hinduphobia and celebrating cultural festivals like Diwali and Holi.
Led by Keir Starmer, the Labour Party is currently ahead on 403 seats, while Rishi Sunak’s party has won just 109. To secure victory, a party needs to win 326 seats in the 650-member House of Commons.
