Team Blitz India
NEW DELHI: As a measure to discourage illegal immigration and unsubstantiated asylum claims, the UK Government proposes to include India in the list of ‘safe states’.
The government put forth a draft legislation in the House of Commons on November 8 to strengthen the immigration system. The proposal to add India to the safe states list by the UK Government signifies the country’s perceived overall safety and stability, eliminating the possibility of seeking asylum in Britain for those entering illegally. Consequently, Indians engaging in unauthorised travel from their home country will find their asylum prospects in the UK significantly reduced.
The UK Home Office’s statement says, “Legislation presented in Parliament November 8 aims to fortify the immigration system, curbing potential abuse, including unfounded protection claims.”
UK Home Secretary Suella Braverman stressed the need to deter people from undertaking “dangerous and illegal journeys” to the UK from countries deemed fundamentally safe.
Braverman stated, “Expanding this list will enable us to swiftly repatriate individuals with no legitimate claim to stay here, sending a clear message that illegal entry will not lead to residency.”
The UK Home Office clarified that a country can only be designated as a safe state under Section 80AA if the Home Secretary is convinced that there is generally no serious risk of persecution for its nationals, and deportation to that country aligns with the UK’s obligations under the Human Rights Convention.
