Savitha Prakash, an NHS doctor in Harrow, London, is among a growing number of British Indians finding common ground with Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform UK. Prakash likens Farage to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, "He's [Modi] one of those people, like Nigel, he walks the talk. He made [a] difference to the country." This sentiment is reflective of increasing support for Farage's party within the British Indian community, which has seen support rise significantly in recent years.
Prakash, who chairs the Reform UK branch in Harrow, emphasizes that both Farage and Modi focus on prioritizing the needs of the majority. She noted, "There was a time before [Modi] came into power that minority appeasement was normal. Everybody believed that if you want to be in power, you have to appease the majority. Today's Nigel speaks the same thing. He speaks about looking out for the majority." Her perspective highlights a shift in how some British Indians view political leadership and their alignment with reformist agendas. Originally reported by The Guardian.
Growing Support for Reform UK
Research by the 1928 Institute, a group of Oxford academics analyzing the British Indian community, revealed a notable increase in support for Reform UK, climbing from just 4% in 2024 to 13% in 2025. While this figure remains lower than the general UK population's support for the party, the trend indicates a significant shift among British Indians. Prakash's personal journey from India to the UK, where she arrived on a visitor visa in 2003, underscores her commitment to Reform UK and its agenda.
After obtaining her work visa and eventually British citizenship, she became more aware of the changing dynamics within British society. "When I started working in metropolitan areas, like London or Birmingham, I slowly started seeing how things have changed in Britain," she reflected. "This was not the Britain I moved into. It looks more like regressing back to how things were in India." This feeling resonates with many within her community who are concerned about the country's direction.
Local Elections and Political Landscape
As local elections loom on May 7, Prakash is spearheading a campaign featuring 55 Reform candidates in Harrow, a borough where British Asians represent nearly half the population. Historically a Conservative stronghold, Harrow could see significant shifts in voter sentiment. Recent polling by YouGov suggests that the Conservative Party may secure more than double the votes of any other party in the area.
Bob Blackman, the Conservative MP for Harrow East since 2010, has garnered support through pro-Modi narratives and initiatives. His recognition, including receiving the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors, reflects the growing ties between the UK's Conservative Party and Indian political figures.
Criticism and Controversy Surrounding Reform UK
Despite Prakash's enthusiasm for Reform UK, the party has faced criticism over harsh immigration policies, including proposals to abolish Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). Under the party's plans, migrants would need to reapply for a visa every five years, facing stricter requirements, including higher salary thresholds and English proficiency. Critics argue that these measures are cruel and unfair, particularly for those seeking a better life in the UK.
Prakash, however, defends these policies, asserting, "The country decides the amount of net immigration they need to have. I wouldn't be wanting to have more than the required number of people in more than the required number of places." Her views reflect a broader sentiment among some British Indians who feel that current immigration practices do not adequately address the needs of citizens.
Personal Stories Reflect Broader Sentiments
Anecdotal evidence from local residents reveals a common frustration regarding the treatment of asylum seekers compared to legal migrants. A 29-year-old waiter from Gujarat expressed concern over the perceived advantages given to asylum seekers, saying, "Asylum seekers, they get to stay in hotels where the government is paying for them.. Whereas us, who [have] a legal status.. have to pay a lot of that." This sentiment resonates with many who feel that the immigration system favors certain groups over others.
As the local elections approach, the political landscape in Harrow continues to evolve. With British Indians increasingly backing Reform UK, the implications of this shift could reshape local governance and influence broader political trends across the UK. The community's growing engagement with Farage and the Reform party signifies a notable moment in British political history.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.