The U.K. Government has appointed Samir Shah, a 71-year-old British-Indian media executive, to lead the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) as its new chair. Shah, a former BBC non-executive director, brings over four decades of media experience to the role.
Born in Aurangabad, Shah migrated to the U.K. in 1960. Known for his connections to the Conservative Party, he currently owns Juniper TV, a media company. Shah’s appointment follows the departure of Richard Sharp, who resigned in June amid controversy related to a loan arrangement with former U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Shah faces challenges as the BBC grapples with financial constraints, including a £500 million cost-cutting initiative and a two-year freeze on its licensing fee. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has supported the need for the broadcaster to make prudent financial decisions.
Additionally, the BBC has come under scrutiny for its documentary ‘India: The Modi Question,’ which criticized the Indian government’s treatment of minorities, particularly Muslims. The film, banned in India, disclosed a British government report attributing responsibility for the 2002 Gujarat riots to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Following the documentary, tax authorities raided BBC offices in Delhi and Mumbai, although the government denies any connection between the raids and the film.
Shah’s role as BBC chair includes overseeing the broadcaster’s independence, a crucial responsibility as it navigates financial challenges and international controversies.
