London — The Overseas Friends of BJP, a voluntary organisation supporting the Indian diaspora across the UK and Europe, traces its origins back to 1992, when former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited London.
It was during this visit that the idea was conceived to establish a non-political overseas branch of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), dedicated to the welfare of Indian communities abroad.
Picture credit: Kuldeep Shekhawat
Kuldeep Shekhawat, a senior volunteer and incharge for the UK and Europe, explained the organisation’s core mission. “While we support the ideology of the BJP, we are not a political party here in the UK. Our primary focus is on social causes—helping Indians living overseas with issues ranging from visa problems to family disputes,” he said.
With an estimated two million people of Indian origin residing in the UK, including large Punjabi and Gujarati communities, the need for such support is significant. Shekhawat emphasised that the organisation does not engage in local politics or elections but acts as a community support system.
“The Indian diaspora faces numerous challenges — from consular issues to personal difficulties. That is where the Friends of BJP step in to provide assistance. We operate purely on volunteer efforts and self-funding. There is no financial backing from India or any political funding,” he added.
Despite its voluntary nature, the organisation has faced internal challenges. Shekhawat revealed that, due to controversies involving some previous office bearers, the UK chapter’s structure was recently streamlined. “We no longer have a president or vice president. Instead, I act as convener, leading a small executive committee that makes decisions collectively,” he explained.
Shekhawat also clarified that all activities, including travel to meetings across Europe, are self-funded by volunteers. “For example, if I travel to Paris for a meeting, I pay for my own tickets and accommodation. It’s a labour of love for the community, not a paid role,” he said.
The Overseas Friends of BJP operate under the broader umbrella of the BJP’s Foreign Office, headed by Mr Vijay Chauthaiwale. The Europe region, including the UK, is overseen by a core committee that supports local chapters.
Shekhawat extended an open invitation to members of the Indian diaspora who wish to contribute voluntarily. “If you want to work for your community and help your motherland from abroad, you are most welcome to join us. We operate transparently and encourage people to seek facts directly from our officials,” he stated.
According to Shekhawat, the organisation’s impact lies in fostering a collective voice for Indians abroad and providing practical support wherever possible. “We believe in collective responsibility and community welfare. There is no political agenda here—just a commitment to social causes and support for our people,” he concluded.
For further information or to get involved, members of the Indian diaspora in the UK can contact the Overseas Friends of BJP through their official channels.
The Overseas Friends of BJP UK has recently announced its new team structure as follows:
Bikram Banerjee – Convenor, Shashi Patel – Treasurer, Deepak Patel, Gyan Sharma, Chinu Kishore, Hirdesh Gupta, Raj Devarupu – IT, Rajesh Viswakarma, Advisor: Suresh Mangalagiri.
It is important to note that there are currently no posts of President, Vice President, or General Secretary within the UK chapter. The only official positions are Convenor and Treasurer.
Furthermore, Kuldeep Singh Shekhawat has been promoted to Incharge for Europe, including the UK, following his tenure as the longest-serving President of OFBJP-UK from 2018 to January 2026.
