Following some British Hindus’ protests about the serving of non-vegetarian food and wine at the Diwali celebration at 10 Downing Street, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office issued an apology on Friday for a “mistake” in the event’s planning. Although there was no explicit mention of the menu in the message, a representative for Starmer’s office stated the team understood how strongly people felt about the problem and promised the community that it would not happen again.
According to a Downing Street official, “the Prime Minister was delighted to welcome a range of communities celebrating Diwali to a reception in Downing Street.” He praised the significant contributions made to our nation by the British Hindu, Sikh, and Jain communities as well as the way that the government is motivated by the same ideals of perseverance, ambition, and desire. The spokeswoman said that an error had been made in the event’s planning.
The representative said, “We would like to apologize to the community and reassure them that it will not happen again because we understand how strongly people feel about this issue.” The announcement was made a day after Shivani Raja, a member of the British Indian Conservative Party, sent Starmer a formal letter voicing concerns that the event was not “in keeping with the customs of many Hindus.” Her letter, which was shared on social media, states, “I feel it speaks poorly against the organization of this year’s event – with a disappointing lack of knowledge of the customs and traditions that many British citizens hold dear.”
The first-time Tory member of Parliament elected in July from the city of Leicester said, “As a practicing Hindu representing thousands of Hindus within my own constituency of Leicester East, I have been deeply saddened to hear that this year’s festivities were overshadowed in the greatest Office of State by negativity, as a result of this oversight.”
In order to guarantee that Hindu holidays are observed in a “respectful manner,” the opposition MP continued by offering the Labour Party administration her “assistance and guidance” for all upcoming Hindu holidays. This was the first Diwali reception since Labour won the general election four months ago, and it took place in Downing Street on October 29. It brought together lawmakers, professionals, and leaders of the British Indian community. However, after reports surfaced of meat and alcohol being served at the gathering, community organization Insight UK questioned the “appalling lack of understanding” of the spiritual aspect of the Hindu festival, and some others pointed out that more consultation is necessary before such religious events.
