Virendra Sharma is a veteran British politician and Member of Parliament for Ealing Southall. Born in India, he migrated to the UK in 1968 and started as a bus conductor before dedicating his life to public service. Elected as a councillor in 1982, he became the Mayor of Ealing in 1994 and an MP in 2007.
Sharma has championed equality, healthcare, and education, advocating for global issues like girls’ education and tuberculosis prevention. Known for his integrity, he was named one of the UK’s “50 Saints” during the parliamentary expenses scandal.
Virendra Sharma’s journey from a humble bus conductor to a distinguished Member of Parliament is a testament to resilience, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to public service. Born in India, Sharma arrived in the United Kingdom in 1968 as an economic migrant, seeking opportunity in a new land. What began as a struggle for financial stability soon transformed into a lifelong mission to fight for equality, justice, and the betterment of British society.
Starting as a conductor on London’s route 207, Sharma witnessed firsthand the daily lives and struggles of working-class citizens. Little did he know that the very streets he once traversed in uniform would later be the constituency he would serve in Westminster. His deep understanding of social disparities led him to engage in political activism, joining trade unions, the Indian Workers’ Association (IWA), and the Labour Party. In 1982, Sharma was elected as a councillor, marking the beginning of an illustrious political career spanning decades. His commitment to public service was evident in the way he championed grassroots issues that often went unnoticed.
From advocating against the dowry system, which financially crippled many families, to addressing racial inequality in employment and housing, Sharma’s leadership was driven by a deep sense of justice. His tenure as the Mayor of Ealing in 1994 further solidified his role as a representative of all communities, not just those of Asian heritage.
In 2007, Sharma took a significant step forward in his political career when he won the byelection for Ealing Southall, securing his place in the British Parliament. His electoral victories in 2010, 2015, 2017, and 2019 reaffirmed the trust his constituents placed in him.
As an MP, Sharma expanded his focus to global issues, advocating for girls’ education in Afghanistan and combating tuberculosis in countries like India, Korea, and the Philippines. His leadership in various All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPGs) highlighted his broad vision and commitment to international collaboration.
Amidst political scandals that tarnished the reputations of many MPs, Sharma’s integrity remained unblemished. The Telegraph recognised him as one of the country’s “50 Saints” for his ethical conduct during the UK’s Parliamentary expenses scandal, a testament to his unwavering principles.
Virendra Sharma’s legacy is one of selfless service, where religion, caste, and race never overshadowed his duty to the people. “I have always kept myself above religion, caste, or race.”
