Jainti Dass Saggar

Scottish-Indian doctor and politician

Jainti Dass Saggar

Jainti Dass Saggar (1898 – 18 November 1954) was a pioneering Indian-born Scottish doctor and politician. He was the first person of Indian origin to be elected to public office in Scotland. Saggar's contributions to medicine and his community work in Dundee have left a lasting legacy.

Early life and education

Jainti Dass Saggar was born in 1898 in Hoshiarpur, Punjab, British India. He was the son of a farmer and grew up in a rural setting. Saggar showed academic promise from a young age, which led him to pursue higher education. He moved to the United Kingdom to study medicine, enrolling at the University of Edinburgh.

Medical career

After completing his medical degree, Saggar moved to Dundee, where he began his career as a general practitioner. He was known for his dedication to his patients and his commitment to providing medical care to the underserved communities in the area. Saggar's practice was located in a working-class neighborhood, and he often treated patients who could not afford to pay for medical services.

Political career

In addition to his medical practice, Saggar was deeply involved in local politics. In 1936, he was elected to the Dundee City Council, becoming the first person of Indian descent to hold public office in Scotland. As a councillor, Saggar focused on issues such as housing, health, and education. He was a member of the Labour Party and worked tirelessly to improve the living conditions of his constituents.

Community involvement

Saggar was also active in various community organizations. He was a member of the Dundee Indian Association and worked to promote cultural understanding and integration between the Indian community and the wider Scottish society. His efforts in community service were widely recognized, and he was respected by people from all walks of life.

Legacy

Jainti Dass Saggar passed away on 18 November 1954, but his legacy continues to be felt in Dundee and beyond. He is remembered as a trailblazer who broke racial barriers and served his community with compassion and dedication. In recognition of his contributions, a street in Dundee has been named Saggar Street in his honor.

Related pages

• Dundee
• University of Edinburgh
• Labour Party (UK)
• Indian diaspora in the United Kingdom