Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 18: In a historic milestone for the Sikh community, Lord Dr Indarjit Singh, the first turbaned Sikh to serve as a Parliamentarian in the UK, has become the first Sikh to have his portrait displayed in the British Parliament.
The portrait was unveiled in the prestigious Bishop’s Corridor of the House of Lords in Westminster, London, in recognition of Lord Singh’s significant contributions to British public life and his long-standing services to interfaith understanding.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by several prominent British Sikh MPs, including Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, Lord Kuldeep Singh Sahota, and Jas Athwal, along with dignitaries from across the UK.
Lord Speaker Faulkner praised Lord Singh for his pioneering work, highlighting his role in promoting interfaith dialogue and bringing Sikhism into the public consciousness.
“He brought interfaith understanding to the breakfast tables of the UK,” Lord Faulkner remarked.
Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, MP for Slough, called the installation of Lord Singh’s portrait a “historic step,” adding that it would serve as an enduring symbol for both Parliamentarians and visitors.
Lord Singh’s contributions to British society, especially in the areas of public service and broadcasting, were widely acknowledged during the ceremony.
The Global Sikh Council (GSC) also expressed pride in the milestone, with its leaders from around the world congratulating Lord Singh for his exemplary achievements.
Harsaran Singh, treasurer of the GSC, said the installation of Lord Singh’s portrait was a moment of pride for the entire Sikh and Punjabi community.
GSC members from the UK, USA, and Malaysia noted that this recognition highlighted Lord Singh’s lifelong dedication to public service, Sikh values, and interfaith harmony.
Lord Singh, a lifelong advocate for Sikh rights and British society, continues to be a role model for generations to come, demonstrating the power of cultural understanding and respect in modern political life.
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