UK PM apologises for non-veg food, alcohol at Diwali reception

Prime Minister Keir Starmer's office issued an apology on Friday for a "mistake" in the organisation of its Diwali reception at 10 Downing Street after receiving criticism from some British Hindus regarding the inclusion of non-vegetarian food and alcohol at the event.

Although the official statement did not specifically address the menu, a spokesperson from Starmer's office acknowledged the community's concerns and assured that the oversight would not happen again in future celebrations, according to reports from a news agency.

"We understand the strength of feeling on this issue and assure the community it will not happen again,” the spokesperson said.

The statement came a day after British Indian Conservative MP Shivani Raja formally expressed her concerns in a letter to Starmer, noting that the event was not aligned with the customs observed by many Hindus. She criticised the event's organisation, citing a "lack of knowledge" regarding Hindu traditions, and expressed disappointment over the oversight. She offered to provide guidance to ensure future celebrations are handled more respectfully.

This year's Diwali reception on October 29 was the first held under the Labour government since their recent electoral victory. The event, intended to bring together British Indian community leaders, professionals, and MPs, was criticised by groups like Insight UK for showing an “appalling lack of understanding” of the spiritual essence of the Hindu festival. Calls were made for better consultation in organising religious events to avoid such cultural missteps.

Despite the controversy, the event featured Starmer lighting candles on the doorstep of 10 Downing Street, in a gesture reminiscent of Rishi Sunak’s tenure as the first British Hindu Prime Minister.