LONDON, Jun 29: British PM Rishi Sunak has honoured Rajindar Singh Dhatt, one of the last surviving Sikh soldiers who fought in the Second World War with a Points of Light honour at a UK-India Week reception at 10 Downing Street.
Mr. Dhatt, 101, was recognised on June 28 for his service and his work running the “Undivided Indian Ex-Servicemen’s Association” to help bring together British Indian war veterans.Born in pre-Partition India in 1921, Mr. Dhatt has lived in Hounslow, southwest London, since 1963. He served in the Allied forces during the British colonial era.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Prime Minister for recognising the significance and influence of the “Undivided Indian Ex-Servicemen’s Association,” Mr. Dhatt said. “It is an immense honour to receive this recognition from the Prime Minister,” he added.”As an ex-serviceman, I had a strong sense of obligation to start this organisation with the goal of creating friendship, support, and solidarity. This honour recognises the innumerable people who have worked nonstop over the years to further the association’s development and success, he said.Later, according to Downing Street, he was enlisted in the Far East battle to fight in northeast India’s Kohima to support the Allied Forces and aid in the overthrow of the Japanese defences. Mr. Dhatt travelled back to India following the war before relocating to London with his family.
His organisation just established an online forum for veterans where members may connect and share personal tales and publications. Additionally, Dhatt continues to share his story through lesson plans and online resources while speaking at memorial gatherings and working with war veteran charities including the Royal British Legion and the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans.Even as he approaches his 102nd birthday, Mr. Dhatt said receiving the honour is a “momentous occasion” that motivates him to keep making significant contributions to society.
According to Downing Street, the Points of Light programme honours exceptional individuals whose contributions to their communities are having a positive impact and whose life stories can motivate others to find creative solutions to societal problems both within and outside of their own communities.
The celebration of Mr. Dhatt’s honour took place in conjunction with a Downing Street reception honouring UK-India Week, which was organised by the India Global Forum. Prime Minister Sunak praised Mr. Dhatt as a “incredible man” and thanked him for his work as a “living bridge” for the Indian diaspora.
