When we met Keith Vaz in May 2012 following the Rochdale case, we discussed the issue of the use of the word 'Asian' when the heritage, ethnicity and the faith of the perpetrators was known. We also brought to his attention that the majority of Hindus and Jains were very unhappy that in such situations, they were being lumped with Pakistani Muslim men under the banner of the word ’Asian’. This is a reminder again of the same issue of BHV's concern about the use of the word Asian which includes Hindus and Jains.
We appreciate that there may be nothing much Keith Vaz can do about the media but if an MP of his stature and influence takes a stand and makes comments about the undesirability of misusing the word 'Asian' when the details of the heritage, origin and faith of the perpetrators are known, the media may take it seriously.
As he represent a constituency that has a significant number of Hindus and Jains, most of whom would not wish to be labelled as 'Asians', it would be very helpful to know what steps Mr Vaz intend’s to take on the use of the use of the term "Asian" in such situations.
It would also be helpful if Mr Vaz could start a discussion within the Labour party on this subject. BHV feels it is about time politicians faced the reality of the situation on child sexual exploitation like the ones reported in Labour controlled Rotherham and start calling a spade a spade. Unless this happens, BHV feels it would be difficult to find solutions to the problems which now simply cannot be brushed away and should not be allowed to be brushed away. The reasons why this is happening must be found no matter how unpalatable the findings are and no matter what the consequences could be on community cohesion or whatever is left of it.
It seems that the humanity, decency and the moral compass simply does not exist in some of the perpetrators who carry out such sickening activities.
Hindus and Jains and perhaps other British Indians are getting sick and tired of getting 'blamed' through the use of the word 'Asian' by politicians and the media in situations like this when the crime is committed mainly by Pakistani Muslim men.
I look forward to hearing your views on this matter on the use of the word 'Asian' within the context discussed above.
Mukesh Naker
Communications officer
British Hindu Voice
