UK MP Bob Blackman Seeks Statement on Minority Protection in Bangladesh and Pakistan

UK Member of Parliament Bob Blackman has expressed concern over the plight of Hindus in Bangladesh and Pakistan. The Conservative MP for Harrow East made the remarks on Thursday, October 15, 2026, during the Business of the House session in the House of Commons. He asked the UK government for a statement on what steps it plans to take to help protect minorities in both countries.

Speaking during Navratri, Blackman noted that the joyous Hindu festival was halfway through at the time. He said he had attended the World Sindhi Congress the previous Saturday and met a delegation comprising former Bangladeshi politicians and members of the Sanatan Dharma community that week. Both groups raised the same issue, expressing concern over the dire situation facing Hindus in Pakistan and Bangladesh. Blackman added that he receives messages every day about atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Acknowledging that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office was focused on Russia's illegal war against Ukraine and the crisis in the Middle East, Blackman nevertheless sought a statement on what the government would do to protect minorities in Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The Leader of the House of Commons, Sir Alan Campbell, responded on behalf of the government. He said the UK strongly condemns any form of hatred or violence against minority religious communities in Pakistan, including Shia Muslims, Ahmadis, Christians, Hindus and Sikhs. He noted that the UK works with the international community in partnership with Pakistan to promote human rights. Campbell added that he would draw Blackman's comments to the attention of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).