dropped by to extend her support
for the National Sikh War Memorial campaign spearheaded by Labour
MP, . The campaign for a National Sikh
War Memorial in London, an Early Day Motion signed already by 266
MPs, is to commemorate the Sikh soldiers who exhibited
extraordinary bravery and sacrifices in the service of Great
Britain during both World Wars.
Sikh soldiers formed 20% of the British Indian Army during the
First World War even though they were only 2% of the population
of British India. Hundreds of thousands of Sikh soldiers saw
active service during the two major wars as well as other major
conflicts. More than 83,000 turbaned Sikh soldiers laid down
their lives and more than 100,000 were injured during the World
Wars.
Speaking on the campaign, Helen said: “Sikhs fought bravely in
the British Army in two World Wars which made an indispensable
contribution that deserves to be recognised and remembered by all
of us. Erecting a monument in their honour in a prime central
London location will be a fitting tribute to their sacrifice,
courage and martial spirit.”
MP said, “Memorials already exist
in London for Soldiers from the Commonwealth, British India,
Poland, African-Caribbean nations, and for the Gurkhas but none
of a turbaned Sikh Soldier. For over a decade there has been a
demand from various quarters for the installation of such a
national monument in our capital city. It is clear that the
memorial has cross party support and with the active support of
the Government, Mayor of London and Parliamentarians from across
the political spectrum we will in the very near future have a
permanent national monument in a fitting central London location.
It would have huge additional benefits for community cohesion and
integration within our country, something which is very close to
my heart.”
Helen would also ask individuals to join nearly 30,000 others and
pledge their support for the cause by signing the Change.org
petition by MP that can be found
here: http://bit.ly/2BTLR2G.
