Leicester East MP, Shivani Raja, is spearheading the fight against City Mayor Sir Peter Soulsby's decision to cancel the historic Diwali Light Switch-On event. Ms Raja has written a letter to the Labour City Mayor, now co-signed by two other Leicestershire MPs, and created a petition, challenging Sir Peter Soulsby and the Labour-run Leicester City Council over their controversial decision to cancel this year’s annual Diwali Light Switch-On.
The decision to axe the event, previously part of a two-day celebration on Belgrave Road, was made last month by the City Council and Sir Peter Soulsby, citing "unsustainable" costs. The Diwali celebrations, which traditionally include the Light Switch-On and Diwali Day events, will now be condensed into a single-day event on Thursday, 31 October, held on Belgrave Road and Cossington Street.
This move comes as the City Council grapples with financial strain, recently acknowledging that it remains on the verge of bankruptcy, despite underspending last year.
In her letter to Sir Peter Soulsby, Ms Raja expressed her profound concern over the decision, particularly in light of the significant economic and cultural impact of the event. During a meeting on 21 August, Ms Raja discussed with Sir Soulsby the economic benefits of the Diwali celebrations, which contribute approximately £3.5 million to the local economy. She highlighted the disproportionate decision to cancel the event for a saving of £120,000, especially given the potential loss of £1.5 million to Leicester’s economy.
Ms Raja also raised concerns about the lack of clarity in the decision-making process, noting that Sir Soulsby had been unable to provide detailed knowledge of the event’s costings during their meeting. In her letter, she called on him to reconsider the decision and explore alternative ways to reduce costs while maintaining the event’s cultural and economic importance.
Her letter was co-signed by MPs Neil O’Brien and Peter Bedford, representing the constituencies of Harborough, Oadby and Wigston and Mid Leicestershire respectively.
Speaking on her decision to challenge the City Mayor, Ms Raja said:
“I remain absolutely steadfast in my belief that cancelling the Diwali Light Switch On is the wrong call. I want Sir Peter Soulsby to be held accountable for these decisions, and ensure that he is fully aware of the impact this will have on my constituents, the local economy and community cohesion across Leicester.
"Axing an event that brings approximately £3.5 million to the local economy, all to save £120,000 – just 0.12% of the council’s annual budget – is reckless. This event fosters community unity and supports local businesses. The residents and business owners of Leicester deserve answers, and I am committed to ensuring they get them."
Ms Raja had met with Sir Peter Soulsby the day before the public announcement of the cancellation, seeking to scrutinise the funding allocated to the celebrations. Her goal was to explore cost-saving measures while maintaining the event in its full capacity. However, during their discussion, Sir Peter appeared unaware of the specific details of the funding, which Ms Raja and her colleagues have criticised in their letter, highlighting their concerns about his lack of knowledge on such an important decision.
Ms Raja has also taken the step to create her own petition for residents to voice their opposition on the Council’s plans to axe the switch-on, with plans to share it with Sir Peter Soulsby upon reaching 1500 signatures.
Ms Raja remains committed to continuing her fight on behalf of the residents and businesses of Leicester. However, this decision ultimately lies with Sir Peter Soulsby and Leicester City Council. Residents who wish to support Ms Raja’s efforts are encouraged to lobby their local councillors, urging them to reconsider the cancellation and to help bring back the much-loved Diwali Light Switch-On event.
Residents can sign Ms Raja’s petition on the link available below:
https://www.shivaniraja.uk/campaigns/save-leicesters-diwali-light-switch
