AN Asian origin British MP has come under severe criticism for not taking an oath of allegiance to the Crown on the Bhagavad Gita.
Virendra Sharma, 72, made the solemn affirmation instead of taking a religious oath during the swearing-in at the House of Commons. Sharma, a Punjabi origin represents Ealing Southall.
Born to a Hindu family, Sharma, is a Labour MP for the past 12 years. He is also vice-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for British Hindus. The APPG aims to support and promote the interests of Hindus in the UK.
British MPs cannot take their seats, participate in debates, vote, or receive a salary until they take oath. Such MPs could be fined £500 and have their seat declared vacant.
Bhagavad Gita, is a 700-verse Sanskrit scripture that is part of the Hindu epic Mahabharata.
A protestor is detained by the police during a demonstration against the proposed site of the new Chinese Embassy, outside Royal Mint Court, in London. REUTERS/Carlos Jasso. 
