Sunak, UK’s next PM, gets cheers from unlikely place: India
London, Aug 14 (IANS) London’s next Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, got cheers from unlikely location – an Indian restaurant in Mumbai. It was an unusual moment for a man seen as controversial and even controversial by his own political opponents.
It is also the first time in 35 years that the man seen as the most likely next Prime Minister of the United Kingdom has been seen dining with Indians in India.
However, on the rare occasion that Johnson takes time out from the whirlwind of Brexit negotiations to dine with Indians, his lunch date could prove to be one of the most unlikely he has had in his political career.
London’s most famous curry house, and one of the few Indian restaurants not owned or run by a British or Indian chef, opened a branch on the iconic Oxford Street in India’s financial capital.
It is open to all, with a menu packed with Indian favourites such as korma (yogurt and lamb meatballs), chicken tikka masala, lentil pulao and tandoori chicken. The restaurant claims to be the seventh largest in the country.
“Brexit is going to be such a big deal. There is no room for complacency,” Johnson told the Indian restaurant owners at a meeting held at the restaurant.
The restaurant owners, who have worked in restaurants for 20 years, said they are committed to supporting Johnson in all aspects of his campaign.
“It’s a unique experience for him because he is the only UK Prime Minister we have ever talked to about Brexit,” said Kalyan Ramadas, a co-owner of the restaurant on Oxford Street.
“For the Indian community, it’s an opportunity to work hand in hand with the newly elected PM,” said Ravi Mehrotra.
“Johnson is a very down to earth leader. He is a great public speaker and he is open to feedback. It is different for us to be here. We are here to give him support.”
Johnson has been criticised for his comments about EU citizens in Britain.
However, a number of senior British politicians have said that the Brexit vote was the only way that the country could make its voice heard during its exit from the EU.
“When