Mamta Singh, Jersey City’s first Indian American Councilwoman-at-Large, took her oath of office on the Bhagavad Gita at a public inauguration on Jan. 15 at New Jersey City University (NJCU).
Singh, the first elected official of Indian descent and the first generation Indian woman to win office in one of the largest centers of Indian community, was part of Mayor James Solomon’s winning team.
Prominent Indian American leaders, including New Jersey State Senator Raj Mukherji and Assemblyman Ravi Bhalla, alongside dozens of community members witnessed the milestone event.
READ: Mamta Singh makes history with election to Jersey City Council (December 4, 2025)
Solomon, 41, a Democrat who became the city’s 50th mayor also announced the appointment of Indian American Keshav Poddar as Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development.
Solomon and all nine members of the newly reorganized Jersey City City Council were administered the oath by Senator Andy Kim at an event thick with pomp, including a procession by the Honor Guards of both the Jersey City Police and Fire Department.
The Aidan C. McMullen Chorale from St. Peter’s University performed the Star Bangled Banner, preachers from churches throughout Jersey City gave the invocation, and a student from the St. Joseph’s School for the Blind confidently led the overflow crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Singh’s election marked a moment of long-awaited representation for the tens of thousands of Indian American residents who have helped shape the cultural and economic life of Jersey City for decades but had never before seen one of their own elected to City Hall.
Singh ran as part of “Team Solomon” ticket with a platform focused on stable property taxes, expanded recreation for youth, and stronger services for working families. But her impact extends far beyond her policy agenda.
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A nonprofit leader and community organizer, Singh founded JCFamilies, one of the city’s most influential grassroots organizations advocating for women, children, and working parents. She also founded Indians In Jersey City, a group dedicated to supporting immigrant families and celebrating Indian culture.
Her work has made her a familiar and trusted figure across Jersey City’s diverse neighborhoods — from longtime residents to newly arrived immigrants seeking connection and community. Her win marked a shift in Jersey City’s political landscape toward leaders who reflect the demographics, aspirations, and lived experiences of the people they serve.
“As a lifelong Jersey City resident and community advocate, I understand the challenges our neighborhoods face,” she posted on X after her victory.
She also noted that her “background in public service and community organizing has prepared [her] to be an effective voice for all residents on the City Council.”
Singh said she believes “in transparent governance, economic development that benefits everyone, and ensuring our city remains affordable for working families while we build for the future.”