The UK government has announced plans to add India to an expanded list of safe states, along with Georgia, in an effort to speed up the process of returning Indians who travel from the country illegally and to prevent them from seeking asylum in the UK. The draft legislation was laid in the House of Commons on November 8 and will now be debated by both Houses of Parliament. The UK Home Office stated that this move is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the country's immigration system and prevent abuse by individuals making unfounded protection claims.

Home Secretary Suella Braverman emphasized the need to stop people from taking dangerous and illegal journeys to the UK, particularly from countries that are inherently safe. The decision to include India and Georgia on the list of safe states is consistent with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's commitment to "stop the boats" and prevent migrants from making perilous journeys across the English Channel. The Home Office highlighted the increase in small boat arrivals from India and Georgia over the past year, despite individuals from these countries not being at obvious risk of persecution.

Being designated as a safe state means that if an individual arrives in the UK illegally from India or Georgia, their asylum claim will not be admitted. This decision is made on the basis that there is generally no serious risk of persecution in these countries and that removing individuals to these countries does not violate the UK's obligations under the Human Rights Convention. The Home Office emphasized that it has thoroughly assessed India and Georgia and determined that both countries meet the necessary criteria to be designated as safe states.

The proposed legislation will now undergo parliamentary scrutiny and debate before it comes into force. These measures are part of the wider Illegal Migration Act 2023, which aims to detain and swiftly return individuals who arrive in the UK illegally to a safe third country or their home country. The UK government remains committed to preventing illegal migration and deterring individuals from making dangerous journeys to the country. The Illegal Migration Act is seen as a crucial tool in breaking the cycle of exploitation by criminal gangs and preventing further loss of life.

The government's efforts include working with international partners, enhancing enforcement against criminal networks, and cooperating with the French authorities to prevent crossings. Adding India and Georgia to the Section 80AA list of safe states is authorized under the UK's Nationality, Immigration, and Asylum Act 2002, following the enactment of the Illegal Migration Act 2023. The government's decision aims to reinforce the country's immigration system, discourage illegal migration, and ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.