Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ The UK’s watchdog for solicitors, the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA), is investigating legal firms and individuals suspected of advising clients to make false asylum claims. This comes after an undercover investigation by ‘The Daily Mail’ newspaper, which claimed that some lawyers in the UK were allegedly advising illegal migrants from Punjab to fake persecution over their support for Khalistani groups in order to apply for asylum in the country.
UK Justice Secretary Alex Chalk has taken action following a sting operation report that raised concerns about the abuse of the immigration system. In response, he wrote to the chair of the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), urging them to take urgent measures. The investigation brought to light the actions of certain solicitors involved in the alleged misconduct. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak also condemned the actions of these solicitors, expressing concern over their actions in manipulating the immigration system. The government’s response reflects a commitment to addressing the issue and ensuring the integrity of the immigration process in the UK.
In his letter to the SRA, Alex Chalk demanded the use of “full force of sanctions” against solicitors found to be exploiting the immigration system. He emphasized the importance of showing the public and honest solicitors that such abuse will not be tolerated.
The SRA, responsible for monitoring solicitors in England and Wales, is taking the matter seriously and investigating the firms and individuals involved. They aim to protect the public and uphold the high professional standards expected of solicitors, especially in areas like immigration where vulnerable individuals may be affected.
In response to the investigation, the Indian diaspora group Insight UK has called on the UK Home Office and Home Secretary Suella Braverman to review all asylum applications claiming persecution based on support for Khalistani or independent Kashmir causes. The group wants a thorough investigation in light of the alleged asylum fraud exposed by ‘The Daily Mail’ and the potential misuse of the asylum system.
