Indian-Origin UK MP Shivani Raja Takes Oath on Bhagavad Gita
Shivani Raja has made history with her victory in Leicester East, marking the end of the Labour Party’s 37-year reign in the constituency. Her election to the UK Parliament as a Conservative Party member is a significant milestone, especially as she took her oath on the Bhagavad Gita, reflecting her Indian heritage.
Historic Win for Conservative Party in Leicester East
Shivani Raja’s victory is monumental for the Conservative Party, as she successfully ended the Labour Party’s long-standing dominance in Leicester East. This constituency had been a Labour stronghold since 1987. In the recent election, Shivani, a 29-year-old businesswoman of Gujarati descent, defeated the Labour candidate Rajesh Agrawal, another Indian-origin politician, with a substantial margin of 14,526 votes to Agrawal’s 10,100 votes.
Significance of Shivani Raja’s Oath on the Bhagavad Gita
Shivani Raja’s decision to take her parliamentary oath on the Bhagavad Gita is deeply symbolic. It highlights her connection to her cultural and religious roots while underscoring the diversity within the UK Parliament. Upon taking her oath, she expressed her pride and honor in swearing allegiance to King Charles on the Gita, a sacred Hindu text.
Impact on Leicester East’s Political Landscape
Shivani’s victory is particularly notable given the recent tensions in Leicester City between the Indian Hindu and Muslim communities, exacerbated by the India vs. Pakistan T20 Asia Cup match in 2022. Her win brings a new political dynamic to the area, potentially fostering a more inclusive and diverse representation in the constituency.
A New Era in UK Politics
The July 4 general election in the United Kingdom brought about significant changes, with the Labour Party emerging victorious and forming the new government. The House of Commons now features the largest number of women ever elected—263, which is 40% of the total—and the most lawmakers of color, totaling 90.
Keir Starmer as the New UK Prime Minister
Keir Starmer has assumed office as the UK’s new Prime Minister following Labour’s landslide victory. The Labour Party secured 412 seats out of 650, a significant increase from the previous 2019 election. This win highlights a major shift in the UK’s political landscape, as the Conservative Party, led by Rishi Sunak, faced a severe defeat, securing only 121 seats.
Rishi Sunak’s Emotional Farewell
In his farewell speech, former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak acknowledged the voters’ dissatisfaction and took responsibility for the Conservative Party’s defeat. He announced his resignation as the party leader, committing to step down once the formal process for selecting his successor is in place.
The Rise of Indian-Origin MPs in the UK Parliament
Shivani Raja is one of 28 Indian-origin members elected to the House of Commons in this transformative election. This reflects the growing influence and representation of the Indian community in UK politics. The increased diversity in Parliament is a testament to the changing demographics and the inclusive nature of British society.
Conclusion
Shivani Raja’s election victory and her oath on the Bhagavad Gita symbolize a significant cultural and political moment in UK history. Her success in Leicester East not only ends a long-standing Labour dominance but also highlights the importance of diverse representation in government. As the UK embarks on a new political chapter under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the contributions of Indian-origin MPs like Shivani Raja will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation.