Hounslow Council regrets to announce the passing of Cllr Jagdish Sharma MBE – the Council’s longest serving councillor and sitting councillor for the Hounslow West ward.
A legendary councillor in the history of Hounslow, Cllr Sharma MBE had a remarkable and distinguished career spanning over five decades serving as a councillor for almost 52 years to Hounslow residents.
Born in 1934, Cllr Sharma was first elected to the Council on Thursday, 2 May 1974, formally taking office four days later on Monday, 6 May 1974 as a Labour Councillor in the Hounslow Heath ward. He then went on to serve as a councillor in the Hounslow West ward continuing to serve residents until his death.
He made history by becoming the first Asian Mayor in the United Kingdom when he served as Mayor of the London Borough of Hounslow in 1979-80, meeting the Queen Mother and featuring in Time Magazine as part of his mayoral year. He later received an MBE from her Late Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.
He was also the only member of the Council to have served as Mayor, Deputy Leader, Leader and Leader of the Opposition at different points during his lengthy career. Cllr Sharma was Deputy Leader of the Council between 2002-2006, the Leader of the Opposition between 2006-2010 and then Leader of the Council from 2010-2014. He was made an Honorary Freeman of the Borough in 2000. During his tenure Cllr Sharma MBE also served as part of the London Government Association (LGA) General Assembly, the London Councils Leaders Committee, the Association of Public Service Excellence and the Community Relations Council as well as many other pan-London and regional governmental bodies.
Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of Hounslow Council said:
"It is with great sadness that today we learnt of the passing of Councillor Jagdish Sharma MBE at the age of 91, after a long and brave battle with cancer.
"Jagdish was a devoted public servant, a pioneering leader, and a deeply cherished member of our community. His remarkable years of service to the London Borough of Hounslow transformed the lives of countless residents and helped shape the borough we are proud to call home.
"He was among the early generation of Asian migrants to the UK - individuals who worked tirelessly to build new lives while strengthening the foundations of community and belonging. His dedication to supporting others, particularly new families settling in Hounslow, earned him profound respect and affection.
“A passionate advocate for social justice, education, opportunity, and inclusion, he championed young people and ensured their voices had a place in leadership. Indeed, he was one of my mentors who encouraged me and many of my generation to run for Council in 2010 for the pursuit of public service.
"His impact was not limited to the Council Chamber. He was a mentor, a guide, and a trusted friend to many, including my own family. His kindness, wisdom, and encouragement shaped my life personally and inspired a new generation of aspiring public servants.
"Jagdish leaves behind an extraordinary legacy - one defined by service, compassion, and community. His contribution to Hounslow will be remembered with gratitude and pride for many years to come.
"We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time, and may his memory continue to inspire us."
A book of remembrance for members of the public to sign has been placed in the Library in Hounslow House. There will be a tribute at the next meeting of the Council.
