Kash Patel, an Indian-American, is now the head of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The US Senate confirmed his appointment. His family originally came from Bhadran village in Gujarat’s Anand district. Nearly 70 to 80 years ago, his ancestors migrated to Uganda, according to community members.
Patel’s Community Celebrates His Historic Appointment
Patel, 44, was born in New York and belongs to the Patidar community. He is the first Indian-American to lead the top US law enforcement agency. Leaders of the Patidar community say all his close relatives now live abroad. They sold their ancestral home in Bhadran when they moved to Africa.
Rajesh Patel, secretary of the Chh Gam Patidar Mandal, an organization that maintains family records of the Patidar community in Anand, confirmed details about Patel’s lineage. “Our records include the names of Kash Patel’s father, Pramod Patel, as well as his grandfather and brothers,” he said. He added that Patel’s family lived in the Moti Khadki area of Bhadran before relocating to Uganda. If any of Patel’s relatives visit India, the organization will seek their consent to update their family records.
Family’s Migration from Uganda to the United States
Kash Patel’s family fled Uganda in the 1970s after dictator Idi Amin expelled Indians. Many displaced families, including Patel’s, briefly stayed in India before seeking asylum in countries like the UK, US, or Canada. Once their asylum applications were approved, Patel’s family moved to Canada and later settled in the United States. In 1980, Patel was born in New York.
Idi Amin, who took power in Uganda through a military coup in 1971, ordered the expulsion of the Indian community in 1972. He gave them only 90 days to leave, forcing families like Patel’s to abandon their homes and businesses.
Patel’s Professional Journey and Achievements
Kash Patel has built an impressive career. He previously served as Chief of Staff to Acting Secretary of Defense Christopher Miller. In this role, he managed key operations, led the executive staff, and advised the Secretary.
Patel completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Richmond. Later, he earned a law degree in New York. Additionally, he obtained a Certificate in International Law from University College London. Apart from his legal and national security expertise, Patel is passionate about ice hockey. He has played the sport since childhood.
In an interview, he proudly acknowledged his roots, stating, “We are Gujarati.”
