Businessman Tarun Ghulati has announced his candidacy for the May 2024 mayoral elections in London, with the aim of becoming the first Indian-origin Mayor in the city’s history. Ghulati, who is 63 years old, made the announcement while visiting India, which he considers his janmabhoomi or place of birth. He is determined to ensure that London remains a leading global city and that all residents feel safe, secure, and empowered with opportunities for growth.
As the co-founder of the 21st Century Icon Awards in London, Ghulati strongly believes that more needs to be done for low and middle-income households across the city. He hopes that his ideas for leveling up will resonate with voters as he prepares to challenge the current Mayor of Pakistani-origin, Sadiq Khan.
Ghulati’s vision as London Mayor includes fostering cohesiveness between countries whose diaspora live in London by building people-to-people and business connections. He plans to create a thriving London by eliminating barriers to growth and ensuring the safety of all citizens. He intends to scrap the controversial Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) and review policies such as the Congestion Charge, 20mph speed limit zones, and Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs). Ghulati also aims to enhance visible policing across all boroughs and restore police stations in areas with high crime rates. Affordable housing will be a key strategy in his agenda.
The ULEZ, which requires drivers to pay a daily charge of £12.50 for driving a non-compliant vehicle anywhere in London, has been one of the most controversial policies of Mayor Khan. Ghulati plans to challenge the Labour Party Mayor as an independent candidate. Other confirmed candidates for the mayoral election include Susan Hill, the Tory candidate aspiring to become London’s first female Mayor, and Rob Blackie from the Liberal Democrat party.
Ghulati is eager to take advantage of synergistic opportunities among nations whose diaspora call London home. As part of his campaign, he will be visiting several countries to strengthen the cultural fabric of London. He recently visited Hyderabad, a global and cosmopolitan city with a robust start-up ecosystem, where he sought divine blessings from Lord Balaji Chilkur Temple.
The deadline for filing nomination papers, along with a £10,000 deposit, for the London Mayoral election is March 2024.
Overall, Tarun Ghulati’s candidacy for London Mayor represents a significant milestone as he aims to become the first Indian-origin Mayor in the city. His platform focuses on promoting cohesiveness, growth, safety, and affordable housing. As the election approaches, Londoners will have the opportunity to choose their next leader and shape the future of the capital city.
