In the upcoming London mayoral elections on May 2, Tarun Ghulati, a Delhi-born entrepreneur, emerges as a formidable contender against the incumbent, Sadiq Khan. Ghulati brings forth his candidacy, relying on his extensive support base and financial acumen, envisioning to lead London akin to an experienced CEO.
At 63 years old, Ghulati asserts his advantage among the 13 candidates vying for the position. Despite prevailing polls indicating Khan’s probable victory, Ghulati dismisses such forecasts as deceptive.
Investing £10,000 (equivalent to Rs 10 lakh) and securing 10 signatures from each borough in London to qualify as an independent candidate, Ghulati aims to bring about change in the mayoral office.
Having pursued education at the University of Jaipur and acquiring an MBA from Delhi University, Ghulati commenced his career as an international manager at HSBC. His relocation to the UK in 2006 stemmed from his admiration for London’s multiculturalism and the opportunities it presented.
As the sole Indian-origin candidate, Ghulati emphasizes his financial expertise as a pivotal asset for the mayoral race. He pledges to introduce ‘fresh capital,’ emphasizing his comprehension of financial dynamics.
Ghulati vows to abolish the contentious ULEZ policy implemented by Khan, which imposes a daily fee of £12.50 (approximately Rs 1,300) on drivers of high-polluting vehicles in London. Additionally, he advocates for rent regulation, incentivizing developers to construct social housing, and establishing social impact funds.
Hailing from GK2 in New Delhi, the prominent candidate asserts his support from Asian constituents, including Muslims, proclaiming himself as the “staunchest advocate for Gaza.”
Prioritizing public safety, Ghulati advocates for increased community policing and a higher presence of officers patrolling the streets. Scrapping certain unpopular policies of the incumbent Labour Party, such as the exorbitant costs associated with ULEZ charges and Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs), constitutes Ghulati’s core policy agenda.
He criticizes the Conservative Party mayoral candidate, Susan Hall, accusing her of failing to oppose the Mayor’s controversial policies despite serving as a London Assembly member for numerous years.
Focusing on initiatives such as enhancing affordable housing, reducing council tax, promoting tourism in the UK capital, and ensuring access to free school meals, Ghulati asserts his commitment to addressing Londoners’ concerns. He claims to have traversed boroughs across London to gather requisite support for his mayoral candidacy.
Featured in the official mini manifesto booklet, which demands each candidate GBP 10,000, Ghulati underscores the comprehensive responsibilities of the winning mayoral candidate, encompassing transportation, law enforcement, housing, and environmental issues affecting Londoners.