Australia (Commonwealth Union)_ Varun Ghosh, the Indian-origin Australian Senator, scripted history by taking the oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita. This significant moment marks a milestone in Australian political history, as Ghosh becomes the first-ever Australian Senator to be sworn in on this sacred Hindu scripture. His oath ceremony symbolizes not only his personal beliefs but also the rich diversity and inclusivity of Australia’s political landscape.
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Varun Ghosh’s appointment to the Australian Senate follows the resignation of Senator Pat Dodson, who stepped down due to health reasons related to cancer treatment. Ghosh, a former barrister renowned for his legal acumen and advocacy skills, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new role. His dedication to public service and commitment to representing the interests of Western Australia have earned him widespread acclaim and support.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed Ghosh’s appointment, expressing confidence that he will be a valuable asset to the Labor Party caucus and a strong voice for Western Australia. Albanese emphasized Ghosh’s capacity to fill the shoes of his predecessor and highlighted his contributions to the party’s objectives and vision for the future. He said, “I was so pleased to support your candidacy, and I say this as well, you’ve got big shoes to fill”. In a statement on social media, Prime Minister Albanese extended a warm welcome to Varun Ghosh, saying, “Welcome Varun Ghosh, our newest Senator from Western Australia. Fantastic to have you on the team.”
Born in 1985, Varun Ghosh traces his roots to India, where his parents, both esteemed medical professionals, originated. Ghosh’s upbringing in a multicultural household instilled in him a deep appreciation for diversity and cultural heritage, shaping his worldview and guiding his path towards public service. His journey from Perth, Australia, to Cambridge University reflects a trajectory marked by academic excellence and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. He is a member of Australia’s Labour Party in Perth and is also the former finance attorney in New York and a consultant for the World Bank in Washington, DC.
Ghosh’s educational background, which includes a master’s in law from the UK’s Cambridge University and an honors degree in law and arts from the University of Western Australia, underscores his commitment to lifelong learning and intellectual rigor. His tenure on the Guild Council at UWA, where he served as chair and guild secretary, highlights his leadership qualities and his dedication to student welfare and advocacy. As a barrister at the prestigious Francis Burt Chambers, Ghosh has distinguished himself in the fields of commercial and administrative law, as well as industrial relations and employment law. His legal expertise and unwavering dedication to justice and fairness have earned him respect and admiration from colleagues and peers alike.
Welcoming Ghosh’s appointment, Australia’s Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong lauded him as a “strong voice” for his community and for West Australians. Wong emphasized the significance of Ghosh’s historic oath ceremony and expressed confidence in his ability to champion the interests of his constituents with integrity and dedication. He stated, “Welcome to Varun Ghosh, our newest Senator from Western Australia. Senator Ghosh is the first-ever Australian Senator sworn in on the Bhagavad Gita. I have often said that when you’re the first at something, you’ve got to make sure you’re not the last. I know Senator Ghosh will be a strong voice for his community and for West Australians. Wonderful to have you on the Labor Senate team”.
In assuming his new role as Senator for Western Australia, Varun Ghosh pledges to be a staunch advocate for education accessibility and equity. He recognizes the transformative power of education in shaping lives and believes passionately in its capacity to empower individuals and communities. Ghosh’s commitment to advancing education opportunities aligns with his broader vision of building a more inclusive and prosperous society for all Australians. He said, “I have had the privilege of a good education and believe strongly that high-quality education and training should be available to everyone”. Ghosh’s inauguration on the Bhagavad Gita signifies a landmark moment in Australia’s multicultural journey, embodying the nation’s commitment to embracing diversity and honoring its rich tapestry of cultures and traditions.
