Indian-Origin Candidate Tarun Ghulati Challenges Incumbent Sadiq Khan in London Mayoral Race

Tarun Ghulati, a 63-year-old Indian-origin investment banker and businessman, has surfaced as a contender against incumbent Pakistani-origin mayor Sadiq Khan in the upcoming London mayoral election on May 2, 2024. Ghulati, who is the only Indian among the 13 candidates, has pledged to strengthen law and order, solve traffic congestion, and attract more investments to the city if elected.

Ghulati, who spent the first 35 years of his life in India, says he wears his Indian roots as a badge of honor and believes in the concept of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' (the world is one family). He has also expressed his commitment to making the upcoming Free Trade Agreement between India and the UK a success. "I take pride in my Indian roots and cultural upbringing," Ghulati stated.

The Delhi-born businessman has criticized Khan's eight-year tenure as mayor, saying he has brought the whole of London to its knees and that safety and security conditions have deteriorated badly. Ghulati has also been critical of the Conservative candidate, Susan Hall, accusing her of being complicit in the city's problems.

Why this matters: The London mayoral election has significant implications for the city's future, as the winner will shape policies on key issues such as crime, housing, transportation, and economic development. Ghulati's candidacy also highlights the growing political influence of the Indian diaspora in the UK.

Ghulati, who has over three decades of experience working with multinational companies and elite international financial institutions, believes his business acumen will help him attract investments and 'get London moving again'. He plans to manage London like a 'seasoned CEO' and has pledged to address issues such as establishing social impact funds and boosting affordable housing supply.

As the race for London's top job heats up, Ghulati is relying on his broad support network and <a href="https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/tarun-ghulati-runs-for-london-mayor-key-things-about-this-

Key Takeaways

• Tarun Ghulati, an Indian-origin investment banker, is running for London mayor in 2024.
• Ghulati pledges to strengthen law and order, solve traffic, and attract investments if elected.
• Ghulati criticizes incumbent mayor Sadiq Khan's tenure, citing deteriorating safety and security.
• Ghulati's candidacy highlights growing political influence of Indian diaspora in the UK.
• Ghulati aims to manage London like a CEO, focusing on social impact funds and housing.