Indians congratulate Rishi Sunak on becoming the prime minister of the UK

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Many Indians have expressed their delight after receiving news of ex chancellor Rishi Sunak becoming the UK’s first prime minister of Indian origin on the special day of Diwali.

Sunak was appointed as the next PM after his rivals Boris Johnson and Penny Mordaunt withdrew from the race to replace Liz Truss who resigned last week after a disastrous tenure that lasted 44 days.

The 42-year-old politicians potential rise to premiership had already made it to thefront pages of Indian newspapers alongside the story about Indian cricket team’s win against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup on Sunday.

Narendra Modi, the prime minister of India, congratulated Sunak by posting a tweet: “Warmest congratulations @RishiSunak! As you become UK PM, I look forward to working closely together on global issues, and implementing Roadmap 2030. Special Diwali wishes to the ‘living bridge’ of UK Indians, as we transform our historic ties into a modern partnership.”

Many Indians also pointed out that Sunak becoming the British prime minister was a moment of pride as the country celebrated 75 years of independence in August this year.

Congress lawmaker and former UN diplomat, Shashi Tharoor also tweeted: “I think all of us will have to acknowledge that the Brits have done something very rare in the world, to place a member of a visible minority in the most powerful office.

“As we Indians celebrate the ascent of @RishiSunak, let’s honestly ask: can it happen here?” he added.

However, for many, Sunak’s immense wealth has been a subject of debate among many.

Opposition Labour lawmaker Nadia Whittome, who is also of Indian origin said, “Rishi Sunak as Prime Minister isn’t a win for Asian representation.” “He’s a multi-millionaire who, as chancellor, cut taxes on bank profits while overseeing the biggest drop in living standards since 1956. Black, white or Asian: if you work for a living, he is not on your side.”