British couple rejected for adoption because of their Indian heritage have been awarded £120,000 in damages – The Sun

A COUPLE who were rejected for adoption on race grounds have won damages of nearly £120,000.

Sandeep and Reena Mander, who have Indian heritage, were told only white kids were available.

Officials also told the couple they were better off looking to adopt from India or Pakistan.

Mr and Mrs Mander, of Maidenhead, Berks, sued their local council for discrimination.

Yesterday at Oxford county court they were awarded £118,922.27.

Mr Mander, an IT firm chief, said: “This ensures that no matter what race, religion or colour, you should be treated equally.

“Today’s landmark ruling will ensure this doesn’t happen again.”

His wife said: “We have changed something for the better.”

Mr and Mrs Mander had appropached Adopt Berkshire in 2016 after several years of unsuccessful IVF treatment.

The pair, in their 30s, were backed by the Equality and Human Rights Commission and have since adopted a child from the US.

Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Council said: “We are very disappointed by the judgement.”