What It Means for the Hindu Community & Why It Matters for Us All
Something historic just happened — Motion Against Hinduphobia and if you’re part of the Scottish Indian community, it’s a moment you’ll want to know about.
In 2025, Scotland officially introduced its first-ever parliamentary motion addressing Hinduphobia — a powerful recognition of discrimination faced by Hindus, and a major step toward inclusion and equality. For thousands of Hindus in Scotland — from students to working professionals and families — this motion is more than just political paperwork. It’s a moment of visibility, validation, and solidarity.
At ScottishIndian.com, we celebrate these milestones because we believe in representing our stories, faith, and lived realities in public life. So let’s break down what this motion actually means — and why it’s a big deal for our community.q
🧠What Is the Motion About Hinduphobia?
On April 8, 2025, Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) Ash Regan of the Alba Party tabled Motion S6M-17089, titled “Gandhian Peace Society’s Report to Address Prejudice Against Scotland’s Hindu Community.”
The motion commends the Gandhian Peace Society’s report, “Hinduphobia in Scotland,” which highlights rising levels of prejudice, discrimination, and marginalization experienced by members of Scotland’s Hindu community. It acknowledges the importance of the Society’s research, advocacy, and public engagement in raising awareness and advancing interfaith dialogue, social cohesion, and mutual respect across Scotland’s diverse communities.
The motion further notes the report’s contribution to fostering constructive discussions around safeguarding religious and cultural rights and encourages continued collaboration to build a more inclusive and equitable society.
💬 “It’s about giving voice to a peaceful, ancient tradition that’s long been misunderstood in modern Western contexts.”
đź“Ťđź“– The Report: Shedding Light on Prejudice
The Gandhian Peace Society’s report presents data and firsthand accounts detailing instances of Hinduphobia in Scotland. Notable incidents include:
- Vandalism of a Hindu temple in Dundee with hateful graffiti.
- An attack on a Hindu family’s home in Glasgow by masked individuals.
- A Hindu nurse in Edinburgh being denied a promotion and asked to remove her bindi and bangles.
- A Hindu teacher in Glasgow being accused of terrorism.
These accounts underscore the need for concerted efforts to address and eradicate Hinduphobia, as such incidents impact individuals and families directly and contribute to a broader atmosphere of discrimination.
🗣️ Voices from the Community for Hinduphobia
Dhruva Kumar, General Secretary of the Gandhian Peace Society, emphasized the significance of the motion, stating, “Regan’s motion sets a precedent: religious harmony is not passive; it is fought for, legislated, and cherished.”
Neil Lal, President of the Indian Council of Scotland and UK, remarked, “When places of worship are vandalised or families face slurs, it’s not just Hindus being attacked; it’s Scotland’s values of tolerance. This report is a mirror held up to our society, urging us to do better.”
🌍 Implications for the Scottish Indian Community
For the approximately 16,000 Hindus in Scotland, this motion represents more than symbolic recognition; it is a call to action. It encourages:
- Increased awareness and education about Hinduism in schools and communities.
- Support for interfaith initiatives promoting dialogue and understanding.
- Active participation in efforts to combat religious prejudice and promote inclusivity.
🙌 A Step Toward Unity and Empowerment
At ScottishIndian.com, we stand for unity, empowerment, and cultural pride. This motion reminds us that our voices matter — and that change is possible when communities speak up and get involved.
Here’s what you can do:
- Share this story on social media with your desi network
- Start or join Hindu societies on campus or in your city
- Encourage your local MSP to support inclusive policies
- Call out Hinduphobia when you see it — with facts and calm confidence
đź’¬ Final Thoughts from Scottish Indian for Motion Against Hinduphobia
The passing of Scotland’s first motion against Hinduphobia is more than symbolic — it’s a sign that Scottish Hindus are being seen, heard, and respected.
As members of the Indian diaspora in UK, we now have a platform to stand on — let’s use it wisely.
📢 For more updates on Scottish politics, Hindu culture, and desi voices, follow ScottishIndian.com — your digital home in the UK.
