Chandigarh, November 19, 2024: Lord Dr. Indarjit Singh, the first turbaned Sikh parliamentarian in the UK and Europe, has achieved a historic milestone with the installation of his portrait in the Bishop’s Corridor of the House of Lords at Westminster, London, marking the first time a Sikh’s portrait is being displayed in the British Parliament.
Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi called the event a historic step, noting the portrait’s importance as an inspiration for parliamentarians and visitors alike.
Global Sikh Council (GSC) members also lauded the achievement. Treasurer Harsaran Singh from Puducherry described the occasion as a source of pride for the Sikh community worldwide.
Deputy President Ram Singh mentioned its symbolic importance, as it marks the first time a Gursikh’s image will grace the walls of the historic UK Parliament.
GSC leaders from the USA, UK, and Malaysia echoed similar sentiments. Paramjit Singh Bedi called it an honor for Sikhs globally, while Harjeet Singh Grewal underscored the recognition of Lord Singh’s lifelong dedication to society and interfaith harmony.
Jagir Singh from Malaysia and Satnam Singh Poonia from the UK emphasized Lord Singh’s role as a torchbearer for future generations, noting his title, “Baron Singh of Wimbledon,” as a symbol of high Sikh values.
Rajinder Singh, Chairman of the Sikh Parchar Committee, described the portrait as a milestone for the Sikh community, reflecting Lord Singh’s enduring contributions to British society and the Sikh faith.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by notable British Sikh MPs, including Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, Lord Kuldeep Singh Sahota, and Jas Athwal, alongside dignitaries like MP Richard Bacon and Lady Singh Dr. Kanwaljit Kaur OBE. Lord Speaker Faulkner, Chairman of the House of Lords Heritage Committee, commended Lord Singh’s efforts in promoting interfaith harmony and raising awareness about Sikhism, stating he brought Sikh values “to the breakfast tables of the UK.”
