When I came to the UK in 1968, at the time of the Asians’ exodus from Kenya and Tanzania, to get even a clerical job here was like plucking stars from the sky. There was covert and even overt discrimination. The only jobs we were good enough for were those on the production line in factories or as bus or train drivers. In those days, one would not have believed that a statue of Mahatma Gandhi will occupy a position in close proximity with that of Winston Churchill in Parliament Square!
Now the times have changed. It must be noted with pride that many British politicians of Asian origin have made their impact in the 2015 election. Britons of Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi origin either retained their seats or won for the first time in the recent elections. They represent all the big political parties. Black and minority ethnic representation in parliament is now over 6 per cent for the first time ever, an increase of 50 per cent on last time.
Gandhiji achieved India’s independence by peaceful means: those of non-violence and his example was followed by many African leaders like Nelson Mandela of south Africa. It must be remembered that Gandhiji, though not himself a Jain, was deeply influenced by Jain doctrines, particularly that of love and kindness to all living beings. His spiritual mentor was Srimad Rajchandra who was a Jain monk.
Dinesh Sheth
Newbury Park, Ilford
