Hindu Forum of Britain (HFB) the largest umbrella body representing British Hindus with over 300 member organisations expresses deep concern and disappointment with the SOAS report, “Better Together,” which claims to investigate the 2022 Leicester communal violence. Unfortunately, the report falls short of impartiality and appears to perpetuate anti-Hindu biases because of unverified assumptions. It is widely acknowledged that the Hindu community has integrated with the Host community and live cohesively.
The HFB rejects this report and its findings. The report’s funding by the ‘Open Society Foundation’ raises serious questions about its objectivity and sincerity in consultations with the local community.
The HFB takes issue with the report’s disproportionate focus on Hindus and Hindutva, which ignores the complexities of the issue and the attacks on Hindu homes, temples, and individuals. This selective flawed and biased approach perpetuates harmful stereotypes and fuels divisive rhetoric which can only harm community cohesion.
As representative organisation of the Hindu community, the HFB concludes that a balanced approach and a more nuanced understanding of the issues relating to Leicester unrest would benefit inter-communal harmony. HFB remains ready to engage in dialogue to discuss misconceptions and recommendations.