MPs to debate petition relating to press freedoms and safety of protestors in India

The debate will be led by Petitions Committee Member Martyn Day MP. MPs from all parties can take part, and the Government will send a Minister to respond. 

Urge the Indian Government to ensure safety of protestors & press freedom

The petition, which has more than 115,000 signatures, states: “The Government must make a public statement on the #kissanprotests & press freedoms."

“India is the worlds largest democracy & democratic engagement and freedom of the press are fundamental rights and a positive step towards creating a India that works for all..”

In response to the petition, the Government said: “Media freedom and the right to protest are essential to robust democracies such as the UK and India. Governments have the power to enforce law and order if a protest crosses the line into illegality.”

What are petitions debates?

Petitions debates are ‘general’ debates which allow MPs from all parties to discuss the important issues raised by one or more petitions, and put their concerns to Government Ministers.

Further Information

• Find out more about the role of the Petitions Committee
• Find out more about select committees

Image: PA