Proposal for Glasgow memorial to South Asian soldiers backed by MSPs

A proposal for a permanent memorial in Glasgow to South Asian soldiers who fought alongside British troops in both World Wars has received cross-party support.

Charity Colourful Heritage is seeking greater recognition for the Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians, Gurkhas and others from a range of nations who fought in the World Wars – with over 160,000 of them losing their lives.

Positive discussions are said to have been held with Glasgow City Council about a memorial being erected in the grounds of Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.

The call for a memorial has now been backed by 33 MSPs from across the political spectrum at Holyrood.

A Parliamentary motion was lodged by Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar which stated that the first permanent memorial to soldiers of the British Indian Army (BIA) should be built.

It noted that the memorial would be a “fitting way to commemorate their service and sacrifice”.

The motion was supported by Scottish Conservatives leader Douglas Ross and Scottish Liberal Democrats leader Alex-Cole Hamilton.

And whilst it is convention that ministers do not sign motions, Scotland’s veterans secretary Keith Brown has supported the work of the charity.

Omar Shaikh, founder of Colourful Heritage, said that “everyone has a role” in making the memorial happen.

“This is fantastic cross-party support for a permanent memorial in Glasgow,” he said.

“Not enough has been done to recognise the contribution and sacrifice of these forgotten soldiers, and we want to see a memorial in place by Remembrance Day 2022.

“Everyone has a role to play in making this happen.

“The memorial will serve as a reminder for generations to come of the contribution of south Asian soldiers, and show people in Scotland from all faiths and backgrounds that they have a stake in our country’s history and values.”