The UK government has earmarked one million pounds for the establishment of a new World Wars Muslim Memorial, aimed at commemorating the valor and sacrifices of Muslim soldiers who served in the British Armed Forces during both world wars, including those recruited from the Indian Muslim community enlisted in the British Indian Army during the colonial era.
The decision to allocate funding for the memorial was announced by UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt during his Spring Budget speech in the House of Commons this week, emphasizing the nation's commitment to honoring the sacrifices made by individuals of diverse backgrounds for the country's future.
Planned to be situated within the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, England, the memorial site, spanning 150 acres on the periphery of the National Forest, serves as a poignant tribute to those who served and laid down their lives in the service of Britain.
The World Wars Muslim Memorial Trust (WWMMT), a registered charity dedicated to advocating for such a memorial, highlights that over 750,000 Muslims served in the Indian and Allied armies during both world wars, with approximately 147,000 making the ultimate sacrifice.
Echoing the sentiment of inclusivity and shared heritage, Sir William Blackburne, chair of the Trust, emphasized the importance of recognizing shared sacrifices and promoting an inclusive narrative of British history, underscoring the need for collective education and understanding among all communities in the UK.
The memorial, designed in the form of a minaret, drawing inspiration from mosque architecture worldwide, will feature a low exedra wall engraved with the poignant stories of Muslim soldiers who valiantly fought under the British crown. Constructed using robust brick and terracotta materials sourced from various regions across the UK, the memorial will serve as a tangible symbol of unity and collaboration.
British Muslim Conservative Member of Parliament, Sajid Javid, hailed the announcement, attributing credit to Chancellor Jeremy Hunt and the WWMMT for their tireless efforts in advocating for the memorial, expressing his satisfaction that the vision will soon materialize, leaving an indelible legacy for generations to come.
