India-Born Media Executive Dr Samir Shah Chosen as UK Government’s Preferred Candidate for BBC Chairman

An India-born media veteran, Dr Samir Shah, has been selected as the new chairman of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), replacing Richard Sharp. The 71-year-old, who has spent over 40 years in UK broadcasting, including serving as the head of current affairs and political programs at the BBC, was announced as the preferred candidate by the UK government. Dr Shah will undergo questioning by cross-party MPs before formally assuming the role. His extensive experience in television production and journalism, as well as his commitment to promoting diversity in broadcasting, make him well-suited to lead the BBC in a rapidly evolving media landscape. The appointment of Dr Samir Shah reflects the government’s confidence in his ability to ensure the BBC represents and serves the diverse communities across the UK. In his statement, Dr Shah expressed his commitment to using his skills and understanding of public service broadcasting to help the BBC overcome future challenges. His appointment comes with the responsibility of upholding and protecting the public broadcaster while fulfilling its mission to inform, educate, and entertain. The BBC spokesperson welcomed the announcement, and Dr Shah’s half-brother Mohit Bakaya, who serves as controller of BBC Radio 4, also expressed support for the appointment. With an annual salary of GBP 160,000, Dr Shah will assume the three-day-a-week role as BBC chairman.