LONDON – Lauding the valiant role played by them during the World War I and II, a top British minister has described Sikh soldiers as unsung heroes who gave freedom that “we hold so dear today”.
Describing Sikh soldiers as fearless and fearsome warriors to their faith, British Home Secretary, Theresa May, said they made an “incalculable positive contribution to world history, boldly fighting injustice, tyranny and oppression”.
“The audience should remember the unsung heroes who gave us the freedom that ‘we hold so dear today’,” she said at a ceremony here to honour a leading Dubai-based NRI Surender Singh Kandhari.
She discussed about acts of heroism of the Sikh soldiers during both the World Wars where many have been given recognition with the Victoria Cross Medal, the highest award for gallantry in the British military.
May was also conferred with an honorary doctorate from the World Sikh University, London, for her outstanding services to the public.
She was present at a ceremony recently organised by the British Sikh Association in London as a chief guest to present the Sikh Jewel Award for 2014 to Khandari, a leading Dubai-based NRI for his exceptional service, dedication and commitment to the Sikh community.
Kandhari is the chairman of the Guru Nanak Darbar, Dubai.
He received the award from the British Home Secretary for his exceptional work towards the Sikh community.
India’s Deputy High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr Virander Paul, paid tribute to the British Sikh community for excelling in all walks of life and becoming one of the most prominent ethnic minorities in the UK.
The Sikh Jewel Award is given to those who brought honour to their community and country by living up to the ideals of their Gurus.
