Politics
British Lawyers Coaching Indian Migrants To Pose As Khalistanis For Fake Asylum Claims: Report
Swarajya Staff
Jul 27, 2023, 12:44 PM | Updated 12:44 PM IST
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A recent investigation by a British newspaper has revealed a concerning practice involving illegal Indian immigrants in the UK.
These immigrants are being guided by unscrupulous lawyers in Britain to falsely claim asylum by pretending to be supporters of Khalistan.
During the investigation, an undercover reporter from the Daily Mail visited several law firms, assuming the identity of an Indian national who had entered the UK illegally on a boat and was seeking employment opportunities.
The reporter discovered that these lawyers were willing to manipulate his situation to make it seem like he feared for his life in India. They suggested various methods, such as claiming "anti-government political allegiances", a "love affair with someone from the wrong caste", or "being gay".
The most commonly suggested course of action for the reporter, who posed as a farmer from Punjab with his "UK-based uncle", was to pretend to be a supporter of Khalistan, reports Times of India.
One lawyer advised him to claim that he had "participated in the farmers' agitation", that "someone invited him to join Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh", and now he fears that Indian security agencies may be pursuing him.
One lawyer advised him to claim involvement in the farmers' agitation and association with Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh, expressing concern that Indian security agencies may be pursuing him. The lawyer charged £5,500 in cash for his services.
Another lawyer, who demanded a fee of £10,000, emphasised that the reporter must claim to be pro-Khalistani - even if he did not support Khalistan - as that way he “would win the case”.
Around 40 law firms are currently under monitoring by UK authorities due to suspicions of asylum claim abuses.
UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to Twitter to share the story, stating that the Labour Party, certain lawyers, and criminal gangs are all aligned in supporting a system of exploitation that profits from illegal immigration into the UK.
The Bar Council criticized Sunak's comments, stating that they undermine the rule of law, trust in lawyers, and confidence in the UK legal system.
The Solicitors Regulation Authority reportedly assured that if they discover any evidence of solicitors or regulated firms acting against their rules, they will take appropriate action.
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