Political involvement
A voice for everyone: why Shekhar is in city politics.
When Shekhar first arrived here, he received the warmth, opportunity and safety that this city generously offers. Today, this city is home for him and his beautiful family. But home isn't just a place where he lives – it's a community he actively wants to shape for the generations to come.
Shekhar stepped into politics because the growing immigrant community needed a direct voice in the city council.
Decisions that affect our daily lives – our schools, local economy, public transport, housing and social services – need equal representation. A truly representative society must understand its political and social challenges through the eyes of all its residents, including its immigrants. Shekhar brings the vital perspective of the many immigrants who have made the unique journey of rebuilding their lives in Finland.
Politics is not a privilege – it is a necessity.
For Shekhar, entering politics is not about titles, prestige or a fancy position, but a fundamental necessity.
For Shekhar, politics is the single most powerful tool we can use to create the real, lasting change that we want to see in our neighbourhood and across our city. He believes that we cannot afford to sit on the sidelines waiting for others to build the future we imagine. We have to build it ourselves.
Gratitude in Action: Giving Back to Our Shared Home.
Many of us in the immigrant community feel a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunities, safety, and support this country and city have provided us. But true gratitude is not silent—it is active.
It is time for us to show our gratitude by contributing directly to our society's future.
It is time to bring our unique skills, diverse experiences, and fresh perspectives to the decision-making table.
It is time to give back to the city that welcomed us, ensuring it remains strong, fair, and prosperous for everyone.
Elected in 2025
Two councils, one term: 2025–2029.
Focus areas
Connecting people and bridging communities for our shared future
Mission: to unite our communities in building a prosperous future in the place we call home.
Vision: A vibrant, united Finland where every background is valued, every voice is heard, and every resident shares in a thriving, prosperous future.
Inclusion
A Vantaa for everyone
Everyone in Vantaa – whatever their background – should be able to influence how their home city is run. Many long-term residents did not know they could vote in municipal elections without Finnish citizenship.
- Information on voting rights and participation for every resident
- Residents with an immigrant background included in decision-making
- Politics where people are – door to door and by phone
Skills and jobs
Keep talent in Vantaa
International students bring degrees, skills and international experience. While studying they pay tuition and spend locally – they are not a cost but Vantaa's future experts.
- Fast, concrete action to keep skilled people in Vantaa
- A joint plan by the city, businesses and organisations
- Immigration as an opportunity, not an expense
03 · Children and young people
Keep kids safe online
A classroom phone ban alone is not enough. Children need protection from harmful content and device dependency – including in traffic, when eyes are on the screen.
- Teaching about the risks and dangers of mobile devices
- More traditional teaching methods
- The city to look into better ways to protect children
Are you ready to use your power?
Your vote is your power.
Every single vote matters.
Change does not happen by accident; it happens at the ballot box.
Too often, new citizens and immigrants feel disconnected from the political process or believe their single voice won't make a difference.
Shekhar is in politics to change that story. Bringing our community to the polling station is not just a goal – it is fulfilling a civic responsibility. When we vote, our concerns are heard, our needs are prioritised and our collective strength is recognised.
Did you know?
You don't need Finnish citizenship to vote in municipal elections.
Many residents with a foreign background can vote in Finnish municipal and county elections. Telling people about this right was at the heart of Shekhar's 2025 campaign – with door-to-door visits and hundreds of phone calls.
Who can vote – vaalit.fiPositions of trust
Where Shekhar makes decisions.
2025–2029
City Councillor (SDP), Vantaa
The City Council is Vantaa's highest decision-making body: it decides on the budget, the strategy and the city's main policies.
City of Vantaa →2025–2029
County Councillor (SDP), Vantaa and Kerava Wellbeing County
The wellbeing services county runs social and health services and rescue services in Vantaa and Kerava.
Wellbeing County →2025–2029
Deputy member, Vitality and Employment Division
A division of the Vantaa City Board that handles business policy, employment and the city's economic vitality.
2025–2029
Deputy member, Regional Council of Uusimaa
The Regional Council of Uusimaa is a joint municipal authority that works as a strategic planner and coordinates regional development.
2025–2029
Member, Local Democracy and Participation
A division of the Vantaa and Kerava Wellbeing County Board that handles local democracy and participation.
At the councils
Latest speeches.
Have your say
Is there something the council should hear about?
Share your issue or idea – your message goes straight to Shekhar.