(Commonwealth_Europe) A notable and potentially transformative moment has emerged in Scottish politics, as Ash Regan, a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) from the Alba Party, has taken a bold step in addressing a long-overlooked issue—the marginalization and growing bias against the Hindu community in Scotland. By tabling a formal motion in the Scottish Parliament, Regan has not only brought attention to the concerns of Hindus in her constituency and across the country but has also initiated a conversation that could reverberate throughout the European Union. The move is the first time that such an issue has been formally acknowledged in any European legislative body, marking a milestone in the recognition of religious and cultural minorities within the framework of democratic governance.
The motion is grounded in findings presented in a recent report titled Hinduphobia in Scotland, published by the Gandhian Peace Society, a Glasgow-based organization dedicated to promoting peace, non-violence, and intercultural understanding. The report offers an in-depth examination of the subtle and overt forms of discrimination faced by the Hindu population, shedding light on an issue that has remained largely under the radar of public and political discourse.
According to the report, Hindu individuals in Scotland are facing a troubling pattern of exclusion, stereotyping, and, in some cases, outright hostility. These experiences are reported across multiple domains of life, including education, employment, and civic participation. Verbal abuse, cultural misrepresentation, and lack of visibility in policymaking processes are among the specific grievances documented. Particularly alarming is the report’s observation that Hinduphobia—defined as prejudice, hostility, or discrimination against Hindus—is not officially recognized in anti-racism policies or government strategies, despite ample evidence of its existence.
By presenting this motion, Regan has used one of the most powerful tools available to a parliamentarian: raising awareness and stimulating legislative attention on social issues. Although such motions do not directly result in legislative change, they are instrumental in putting pressing concerns on the public and political agenda. They serve as formal acknowledgments that a specific issue warrants more profound investigation and more inclusive policies.
Regan’s initiative carries added significance in a Scottish context where multiculturalism and social inclusion are central to national identity. Yet, as the motion implies, these ideals are not always reflected in lived experiences—particularly for smaller or less politically vocal communities like Hindus. The motion challenges Scottish institutions to look beyond broad categories of racial and religious inclusion and to consider the unique forms of discrimination that different communities may face. It’s a call to broaden the conversation about diversity and justice so that no group is left unheard or unsupported.
The release of this motion comes at a time when concerns about religiously motivated hate crimes are intensifying across the United Kingdom. Reports of such incidents have been rising, although many are believed to go unreported due to victims’ fears of not being taken seriously or facing further victimization. This is especially true in communities where cultural stigma and lack of familiarity with institutional processes deter individuals from speaking out. In this light, the report from the Gandhian Peace Society provides a crucial platform for stories that would otherwise remain in the shadows.
Human rights advocates, religious organizations, and civil society leaders across Europe are likely to observe Scotland’s handling of this motion with tremendous interest. If the motion gains traction, it could inspire similar actions in other European parliaments, potentially leading to broader institutional recognition of Hinduphobia as a form of religious and racial discrimination.
Beyond policy, the motion serves a symbolic and psychological purpose. For the Hindu community, particularly younger generations who may struggle with identity and belonging in a multicultural society, the act of having their concerns voiced in the nation’s legislative body is profoundly validating. It affirms their place in the national narrative and signals a shift toward more inclusive politics.
Ash Regan’s motion, supported by the Gandhian Peace Society’s meticulous research, marks an important step toward creating a society that not only tolerates diversity but actively protects it. The hope is that this motion will lead to sustained dialogue, deeper academic inquiry, public education campaigns, and targeted policy interventions. If pursued with sincerity and commitment, this initiative could help lay the foundation for a more just and empathetic society—one where every community, regardless of size or visibility, feels seen, heard, and valued.
