London [UK], December 7: British-Indian businessman and community leader Rami Ranger has criticized the decision by the UK Forfeiture Committee to revoke his CBE (Commander of the Order of the British Empire), pledging to take legal action to challenge the ruling.
Ranger, known for his vocal criticism of Khalistani separatist movements, alleged that the decision undermines free speech and sets a concerning precedent.
Ranger’s Response
In an official statement, Ranger said:
“Today I lost my CBE for standing up against Khalistanis who wish to break up India and the BBC for producing a two-part documentary to imply that PM Modi was involved in the Gujarat riots. This decision undermines British democracy and the rule of law.”
He added that the ruling discourages citizens from speaking out against divisive forces:
“The decision of the Forfeiture Committee has serious implications for all upstanding citizens, that they should not speak their mind in case they forfeit their honour.”
Ranger also highlighted that he faced threats within Parliament after opposing such narratives.
Controversy Behind the Decision
The Forfeiture Committee’s decision reportedly revisited previous complaints against Ranger, including:
- A controversial tweet about a Southall Sikh Gurdwara Trustee.
- Criticism of a BBC documentary implicating Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Gujarat riots.
- Disputes with journalist Poonam Joshi.
Complaints originating from Sikhs for Justice, a US-based group designated as an “unlawful association” by India, were also considered without a transparent investigation, Ranger’s spokesperson claimed.
Support for Free Speech
Ranger accused the Committee of penalizing him for exercising his right to free speech:
“The absence of due process and impartiality highlights a lack of natural justice. Complaints were revisited despite apologies and corrective actions already taken.”
Rami Ranger’s Contributions
Ranger, awarded the CBE in 2016 and appointed a peer in 2019, has been recognized for:
- Leading his business to win five consecutive Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in International Trade.
- Promoting community cohesion through initiatives like the Pakistan, India & UK Friendship Forum and the British Sikh Association.
- Philanthropic work supporting charities like Combat Stress and The Prince’s Trust.
Future Actions
Ranger announced plans to pursue legal action, including a judicial review and an appeal to the European Court of Human Rights.
He called upon his supporters to express their concerns to the Forfeiture Committee, stating:
“If you think I have been wronged, then please express your feelings to the Forfeiture Committee.”
