“English Law Shall Prevail”: A Closer Look at 85 Sharia Courts in the UK Amid Monarchy, Democracy, and Multicultural Harmony

Bureau: While All-Party India delegates reach British land for their diplomatic strikes under Operation Sindoor — a reactive measure against the Pakistani terrorist attack on Indian tourists — there was a silent event headed by a Hindu British politician, organised in Mumbai. In a recent gathering of Indian entrepreneurs and British officials, a profound conversation unfolded — one that raised critical questions about the evolving legal landscape of the United Kingdom, particularly in the context of multiculturalism, religious pluralism, and constitutional integrity. The event, attended by representatives of the British High Commission, featured an important address by Rajesh Agrawal, the former Deputy Mayor of London for Business — the first Indian and first Hindu to hold the position.

Among the attendees was Criminologist Snehil Dhall, who posed a compelling question to Agrawal, invoking a significant issue reported by segments of the British media: “Who wins the game when 85 Sharia Courts operate within the United Kingdom, while both the Monarchy and Democracy have their own stakes in governance?” The question sparked a nuanced discussion that culminated in Agrawal reiterating a constitutional cornerstone — “English Law shall prevail.”

The Legal Complexity: 85 Sharia Courts and the UK Legal Framework

The existence of Sharia courts in the UK — more accurately referred to as Sharia councils — has long been a subject of debate. Estimates suggest there are approximately 85 such councils across the country. These bodies are primarily informal arbitration panels within Muslim communities that deal with matters of personal law — such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance — under the principles of Islamic jurisprudence.

Contrary to popular misconception, Sharia councils are not part of the official British legal system. They lack legal enforcement powers and operate as voluntary, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Individuals participating in these tribunals do so with the understanding that any binding legal outcomes must be recognized by a UK civil court. Despite this, concerns have been raised about potential human rights violations — particularly involving women’s rights, forced marriages, grooming gangs (also known as Love Jihad), and unequal divorce proceedings. These concerns have led to multiple parliamentary inquiries and discussions about whether Sharia councils contradict British values and the supremacy of English common law.

Monarchy and Democracy: The Twin Pillars of British Governance

To understand the implications of religious arbitration systems like Sharia councils, one must appreciate the duality of the British constitutional structure — it is a parliamentary democracy operating under a constitutional monarchy.

• The Monarchy, currently under King Charles III, serves as the ceremonial Head of State and embodies the continuity of national tradition and unity.
• Parliament, consisting of the House of Commons and House of Lords, holds the sovereign legislative power.

While the monarch may not intervene directly in policy, the British Crown plays a critical role in upholding constitutional values, legal integrity, and the Church of England’s primacy — making any challenge to English law a matter of national concern. Thus, in a nation where laws are passed by Parliament, upheld by courts, and sanctioned by the Crown, the claim that “English law shall prevail” is not merely rhetorical — it is a constitutional mandate.

Multiculturalism and the Role of Faith-Based Institutions

Agrawal, in his response, provided an informed perspective, acknowledging both the presence of Sharia councils and the diverse religious fabric of the UK. He reminded the audience that Britain is home to dozens of Hindu temples, Sikh gurdwaras, churches, synagogues, and mosques. The legal framework of the UK permits communities to practice their religion freely, but not at the cost of contravening English law.

He emphasized that while communities are encouraged to retain their cultural identities, the ultimate legal authority in the UK remains secular and common law-based. As it can be interpreted, human rights, gender equality, and due process are not compromised under the guise of cultural relativism or religious arbitration, whereas the British media that highlighted Sharia Law, Sharia Zones, and Sharia Courts has grabbed international attention towards the slow poisoning of terrorism which is directly entering inside British homes.

The Larger Implication: Cultural Harmony Through Legal Clarity

Criminologist Snehil Dhall’s probing question sparked a timely reflection — as the UK becomes increasingly diverse, how should it balance religious customs with universal legal standards? Agrawal’s response — reinforced by his journey from a modest upbringing in Indore, India, to becoming a political leader in London — served as a reminder that integration, not segregation, is key to multicultural success. His life stands as proof that the rule of law, coupled with inclusive policy-making, can accommodate both tradition and modernity.

Rajesh Agrawal: A Symbol of Modern British Leadership

Rajesh Agrawal is an award-winning entrepreneur, community leader, and former Deputy Mayor of London for Business — the first Indian and Hindu to hold the role. Born in Indore, India, he moved to the UK at 24 and built a successful career in both business and public service. He currently chairs Labour Friends of India, promoting stronger UK-India relations.

Born into a humble working-class family in Indore, Rajesh Agrawal arrived in London with minimal resources and quickly rose through the ranks as a dynamic entrepreneur. After founding the Fairgrowth Group, he ventured into public service, serving two terms as Deputy Mayor of London for Business. He played a significant role in generating jobs, attracting international investments, and ensuring fair wages for Londoners. Agrawal has dedicated his career to economic development, youth empowerment, and social inclusion, and continues to work towards strengthening UK-India ties and celebrating Britain’s multicultural essence.

The Verdict of Sovereignty

The discussion between Rajesh Agrawal and Criminologist Snehil Dhall served as a critical reminder of the fragile balance between faith, culture, and law in a democracy. While Britain may house numerous temples, the British media referring to 85 Sharia councils or courts for Sharia Zones — which are patrolled only by unofficial Muslim “police” — is a complex situation to deal with in a diverse population. However, its constitutional spine remains rooted in English law. And in that rule of law, all communities, regardless of origin or faith, find both their protections and their limitations.

In the end, as Agrawal cryptically confirms: “English Law shall prevail.” Not as a denial of diversity — but as a guarantee of justice, equality, and unity under one sovereign legal system.