Slough’s MP has said his dignity has taken a knock after being held back for hours at an airport in India, claiming that “haters” had called to challenge his visa.

Tan Dhesi wrote in a social media post that he had been stopped at Amritsar Airport following alleged calls to have his Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) visa cancelled.

The 44-year-old, who was travelling to India on a personal visit, claims he was held back for two hours while the situation was resolved. It is not known who was behind the calls.

He wrote: “Upon landing in India last year, I felt the huge love and respect from many Indian farmers unions and civil society (in recognition for stridently speaking up for human rights during the farmers protest), but today I had the indignity of being held back for over two hours at Amritsar airport, because some haters had complained to get my valid OCI visa suspended.

“Despite rumours, the issue was fully resolved with officials there, thanks to strong interventions from family, friends and supporters, to whom I’m very grateful.”

Amritsar is one of the largest cities in the northwestern Indian province of Punjab. It is home to the Golden Temple, one of the most important spiritual sites for Sikhs.

Mr Dhesi added: “Even for an MP who is constantly wishing and working for the betterment of Punjab, India, and the wider subcontinent, I guess that’s the price to pay for standing in solidarity with farmers, the marginalised and minorities like the Sikhs.”

Thousands of farmers across India protested in 2020 and 2021 against their government’s agricultural reforms – but many protestors faced a crackdown by police. The controversial bills were eventually repealed.

Mr Dhesi was a vocal supporter of the protestors, having raised the plight of the farmers several times in parliament while the demonstrations were ongoing.

A spokesperson for the Indian High Commission in London acknowledged the social media post, but said they could not comment on issues relating to immigration and entry to a country.

They also noted Mr Dhesi's own reports that he was able to enter the country.