Growing Support for Reform UK Among British Indians in Harrow

As the local elections in Harrow approach on May 7, 2026, a notable shift in political support is emerging among the British Indian community, particularly towards Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage. Savitha Prakash, an NHS doctor and chair of Reform UK's Harrow branch, has become a prominent figure in this trend. Originally from Mysore, India, Prakash moved to the UK in 2003 and has since built a career in healthcare and gained British citizenship. She believes that both Farage and India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi prioritize the interests of the majority, a sentiment that resonates with many voters who feel overlooked by traditional parties.

UK Migrant Care Workers Protest Immigration Changes as Unison Challenges 10-Year Settlement Plan

Research from the 1928 Institute indicates that support for Reform UK among British Indians has increased from 4% in 2024 to 13% in 2025. While this figure remains lower than the general UK population's support, the upward trend suggests a growing alignment with Reform's policies, particularly regarding immigration. Prakash criticizes the Conservative Party for failing to deliver on its immigration promises, specifically the plan to deport illegal migrants to Rwanda, which she views as a pivotal moment in her political shift.

Reform UK's proposed immigration policies, which include scrapping Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and implementing a five-year visa renewal system with stricter requirements, have sparked significant debate. Critics label these measures as harsh and unfair, yet Prakash argues that the country should manage immigration based on its needs. Conversations with local residents reveal a shared frustration over perceived disparities in support for asylum seekers compared to legal migrants, further fueling support for Reform UK.

Despite the party's rising popularity, Reform UK faces scrutiny over past accusations of racism against its members. Prakash dismisses these claims, asserting that the party's diversity, including figures like Zia Yusuf, contradicts allegations of racism. She contends that such accusations are attempts to intimidate and silence dissenting voices. Prakash emphasizes that the party's focus is on addressing the concerns of voters who feel that mainstream politics has neglected their needs.

The political landscape in Harrow reflects broader trends in British politics, where issues of immigration and national identity are increasingly central to voter concerns. Prakash's journey from a Boris Johnson supporter to a Reform UK advocate illustrates a shift in how immigrant voters assess political credibility and delivery. As the elections draw near, the outcome in Harrow could signal a significant realignment in voter loyalties, particularly among communities traditionally associated with established parties.

• “He’s [Modi] one of those people, like Nigel, he walks the talk. He made [a] difference to the country,” — Savitha Prakash, NHS Doctor

• “The country decides the amount of net immigration they need to have,” — Savitha Prakash, NHS Doctor

• “She said: “People wouldn’t be putting me in that position if they were racist.” — Savitha Prakash, NHS Doctor

• “Everybody is overwhelmingly saying now: stop the appeasement. We have to put Britain first.” — Savitha Prakash, NHS Doctor

As the political climate evolves, the implications of these shifts in Harrow may extend beyond local elections, influencing national conversations on immigration and representation in the UK.