THE Conservative party has selected a Gujarat-born woman as its candidate for the Barking constituency for general elections in the UK next month.
Indian-origin Tamkeen Shaikh was born and raised in the country’s western city of Ahmedabad.
Shaikh said in a tweet:"Delighted to be selected as the Conservative Party Candidate for Barking. Hard work begins now! #BlueBarking”.
The new Tory candidate studied and worked as a journalist in the south Asian country before reaching the UK 14 years ago.
Shaikh has been working in the education sector and has two children.
The Indian-origin candidate said her party aims to create opportunities for business and innovation.
Commenting on her priorities as a candidate, she said that, if elected, her priority is to draw more investments into schools, social enterprises, youth engagement, building family homes and care for the elderly.
"I want to see a thriving high street that will benefit social enterprises and small businesses, providing jobs for residents. I am your local candidate representing the local people of Barking, and I will get Brexit done," the pro-Brexiteer promised.
The Indian community has integrated well within the country and are making significant progress in all sectors, she pointed out.
Anti-Racism protesters come out in support of refugees outside the Cladhan Hotel on September 13, 2025 in Falkirk, Scotland. (Photo by Jeff J Mitchell/Getty Images)