The opt-out rule will be a lifesaver for British Indians
OUR Change the Law for Life campaign will save countless British Indians, a campaigner said yesterday.
Manoj Ladwa, editor of a study on the UK and India, welcomed opt-out organ donation as a crucial first step.
Speaking as 1.4million Indians in the UK celebrate the festival of Diwali, he said: “The UK will see some of the largest and most extravagant displays of light and fireworks outside India.
“And, for some British Indians at risk of long-term illness, there is hope of light in the darkness this month.
“The plan for presumed consent for organ donation across England will be
of great benefit to Britain’s Indian community – one ethnic group that falls far behind in organ donation.”
Manoj, who worked as a political strategist with Mayor of London Sadiq Khan, added: “Last year, there were only 90 organ donors from Black and Asian communities, including UK Indians. Contrast that with the 809 patients from that background who received an organ. Some matches are less common among some ethnic groups, meaning waits of up to a year longer than average for donor organs.
“So presumed consent in England will prevent needles death and suffering.” Manoj says the new law will also help dispel myths putting off British Indians from signing up to donate, with tragic consequences.
He added: “Despite this, I’ve seen brave steps from the British Indian community to confront the stigma.”