In a national address, Keir Starmer said the UK would act only in its own national interest and would not be pulled into a war that does not directly involve it. He stressed that the situation is serious but Britain’s priority is to stay out of the conflict.

His remarks come amid rising tensions after Donald Trump criticised European allies and warned that the US may rethink its role in NATO. Trump also reportedly told the UK to secure its own oil supplies from the Strait of Hormuz, a key route through which a large portion of the world’s oil passes.

Responding carefully, Starmer said the UK values its relationship with both the US and Europe. However, he added that strengthening ties with European partners remains important, especially in areas like defence, energy and the economy.

Even as he ruled out military involvement, Starmer announced that Britain will host an international summit to find solutions to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The route has been affected by the conflict, leading to a sharp rise in global oil prices.

According to the UK government, around 35 countries have agreed to participate in discussions aimed at restoring safe movement through the strait. Officials are also working on long-term plans to ensure security in the region once the conflict ends.

Starmer warned that the ongoing crisis could impact daily life in the UK, especially with rising fuel and living costs. However, he assured citizens that the country is prepared to handle the economic pressure.

The move is part of the UK government’s broader transition toward a paperless immigration system. Physical documents such as visa vignette stickers, entry stamps and Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) are being phased out and integrated into the online system managed by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).

While applicants will still be required to visit visa application centres for biometric enrolment, they will no longer need to leave their passports at the centre during the processing period. This change is expected to reduce inconvenience and speed up the overall procedure.

In addition to eVisas for Indian applicants, the UK has made Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) compulsory for travellers from visa-exempt countries. Citizens of 85 nations, including the United States, Canada and France, must now obtain an ETA before travelling to the UK. The ETA costs £16 and remains valid for two years or until the traveller’s passport expires, whichever comes first.

The UK government has also warned that airlines may deny boarding to passengers who fail to present a valid digital immigration status. Travellers must ensure they hold either an approved eVisa, ETA or other recognised documentation before departure.

Authorities have issued additional guidelines for eVisa holders. Individuals must keep their passport details updated in their UKVI online account to avoid complications at the time of travel. Any mismatch between passport information and digital records could result in delays or refusal of entry.

UK Migration and Citizenship Minister Mike Tapp urged travellers to verify their digital status well in advance. He emphasised that securing the appropriate electronic authorisation ahead of time would help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

The UK’s shift to a digital-first immigration model is aimed at strengthening border security, modernising travel documentation and streamlining verification processes for both authorities and passengers.

The West Midlands police confirmed that a man in his 30s was taken into custody on Sunday evening. He is currently being held on suspicion of sexual assault as investigations are underway. 

3rd Update

I am pleased to be able to report a significant development.

Latest news from West Midlands Police: “Officers investigating a racially-motivated rape in Oldbury have this evening (Sunday) arrested a man. The man, in his 30s, was detained as part of enquiries into… pic.twitter.com/ppY6EhqWGf

— Gurinder Singh Josan CBE MP (@gsjosan) September 14, 2025

Chief Superintendent Kim Madill of the Sandwell police called the arrest a “significant development” in the case. She expressed gratitude to the local community for their support and urged the public not to speculate while the inquiry continues.

Following the incident, members of the Sikh community gathered outside Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Smethwick on Sunday. Several people attended the peaceful assembly, offering prayers for the young woman before visiting the site of the alleged attack.

Sikh’s March in solidarity to the crime scene in which a young Sikh woman has been raped,reported by the westmidlands police as a racist attack. pic.twitter.com/S7IIFCL314

— London & UK Street News (@CrimeLdn) September 14, 2025

Local councillor Parbinder Kaur was among those present. Speaking to Sky News, she said she attended “as a woman, a other, and a grandmother,” showing solidarity with the victim.

The survivor, who has the legal right to anonymity, issued a statement through Sikh Youth UK, a community support group.

The last change to the voting age in the UK occurred in 1969 when it was reduced from 21 to 18. Earlier, 16 and 17-year-olds could only vote in certain elections in Scotland and Wales, but now, they will be able to participate in local, regional, and general elections across the entire UK.

Alongside the voting age change, the UK government has introduced a new rule limiting political donations from foreign sources. Under the new regulations, no political party will be allowed to accept more than £500 (approximately Rs 58,000) from any foreign donor. This move is aimed at preventing foreign billionaires, such as Elon Musk, from influencing UK politics and elections with their financial contributions.

The government has emphasised that the reduction of the voting age is intended to promote greater youth involvement in democracy and to ensure justice for young people, particularly those serving in the military or those ready to serve their country.

The government believes this will help restore public trust in the electoral system and democracy, addressing concerns about political disengagement. The decision also aligns with a promise made by the Labour Party in their manifesto ahead of last year's general election.

According to the IPPR think tank, approximately 9.5 million young people in the UK stand to benefit from the new voting regulations. Currently, around 48.2 million people are registered to vote in the UK.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner stated that public trust in democracy and governmental institutions has been steadily declining, and it is time to make significant changes. "Giving 16-year-olds the right to vote not only increases democratic participation but also strengthens society for the future," she said.

In line with the voting age change, the government is also overhauling the voter ID system. Bank cards will now be accepted as voter identification, alongside other digital forms of ID such as driving licenses and veterans' cards.

However, some opposition leaders have expressed concerns that these changes could undermine the security of the voting process.

The government has taken additional measures to prevent foreign interference in UK elections by imposing stricter regulations on political donations. Now, companies donating to political parties must prove that they are based in the UK or Ireland and that they earn revenue from those countries. Earlier, any British company could donate to a political party, regardless of where it was based or who owned it.

Under the new regulations, donations exceeding £500 will be closely scrutinised, especially if they originate from abroad. The Electoral Commission will now have the authority to impose fines of up to £500,000 on individuals or entities that violate the rules.

This decision comes after it was revealed that American billionaire Elon Musk had made significant donations to Nigel Farage's Reform UK party. Under the new rules, Musk and others like him will no longer be able to influence UK politics unless they can prove that their funds originate from within the UK.

Addressing a press conference in London, PM Starmer challenged the long-held belief that higher immigration leads to greater economic growth. “The theory that higher migration numbers lead to growth has been tested in the last four years,” Starmer stated. “That link doesn’t hold, based on the evidence.”

This is the first major immigration overhaul introduced in years and marks a clear departure from previous administrations. As part of the new policy, migrants seeking British citizenship will now be required to live in the UK for twice as long before they are eligible to apply, signaling a more stringent path to naturalisation.

Starmer emphasised that the reforms are not only about reducing numbers but also about addressing Britain’s underinvestment in skills and workforce development. “This is not just a white paper on immigration,” he said. “It is a white paper that leads to skills and training—focusing on the long-term economic health of the country.”

Although he did not confirm whether net migration will decrease each year leading up to the next general election, he affirmed that it would fall before the end of the current parliament.

The Prime Minister also made it clear that while migration numbers would be reduced, there will be no fixed cap on how many people can move to the UK, offering a potential opening for skilled migrants and students.

In a controversial moment during his speech, Starmer explained the intent behind tightening immigration rules: to prevent the UK from becoming “an island of strangers.” He described the new measures as "a strategy absolutely essential to my plan for change," aiming to "finally take back control of our borders."

This phrase has ignited criticism from humanitarian groups and sparked comparisons with far-right rhetoric. The refugee charity Care4Calais strongly condemned the language used by the Prime Minister.

Steve Smith, CEO of Care4Calais, said, “This is dangerous language for any Prime Minister to use. Has Starmer forgotten last year’s far-right riots?” He further warned that “shameful language like this will only inflame the fire of the far-right and risks further race riots that endanger survivors of horrors such as war, torture, and modern slavery.”

Smith has called for a public apology from the Prime Minister.

Starmer did not shy away from criticising the previous Conservative-led administration, pointing out that between 2019 and 2023, net migration quadrupled despite promises to reduce it. “Even as they were going around the country telling people with a straight face that they would bring immigration down, the numbers soared,” he noted.

He also referred to the Brexit-era slogan "take back control", stating, “Everyone knows what it meant on immigration,” signaling his intention to align his policies with public expectations post-Brexit.

The incident was reported on Saturday around 11.30 pm. Roman Haque, 37, has been charged with attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in connection with the incident. Haque appeared at Manchester Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, identifying himself as "Mohammed Roman Haque." The case has been referred to the Crown Court, as confirmed by District Judge Jane Hamilton.

Cherian, a mother of two and a nurse with over a decade of experience at the hospital, is currently undergoing treatment for serious injuries. Her colleagues described her as a “kind-hearted and popular member” of the Indian Association Oldham (IAO). The British Indian Nurses Association (BINA) condemned the attack, stating on X: "We are deeply shocked and saddened by this brutal incident. Our thoughts are with the victim and her loved ones."

Cherian resides close to the hospital with her husband, Alexander Chandy, and has been a familiar face in the community since 2007. Neighbours said she often worked night shifts and was well-regarded locally.t

The visit, accompanied by renowned mother-in-law and philanthropist Sudha Narayana Murthy, highlighted the cultural and spiritual linkages between India and the United Kingdom.

The couple's visit to the mutt, located in Jayanagar's fifth block, served as a moment of reverence and reflection, highlighting their connection to Indian traditions.

Rishi Sunak has always been vocal about his belief in Indian customs, and he has visited multiple temples during past trips to the country. Sunak spoke openly about his Hindu beliefs during a visit to London's famed BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir, also known as Neasden Temple, in January of this year. He stated, “I am Hindu, and like all of you, I draw inspiration and comfort from my faith. I was proud to be sworn in as a member of Parliament on the 'Bhagavad Gita'. Our faith teaches us to do our duty and not fret about the outcome as long as one does it faithfully.”

Sunak also said he plans to pass on the tradition to his children. “That is what I was brought up to believe by my wonderful and loving parents, and that is how I live my life, and that is what I want to pass on to my daughters as they grow up. It is dharma which guides me in my approach to public service,” he added.

The minor was arrested and brought before Leicester Youth Court sitting at Leicester Magistrates' Court.

Notably, Leicestershire Police arrested five minors aged 12 to 14 after the death of 80-year-old Bhim Kohli on Monday night, while the other four were freed earlier with no further action.

Bhim Kohli was attacked while walking his dog in Braunstone Town's Franklin Park. The attack took place on September 1, at around 6.30 p.m. near the park's entrance. Kohli, who was from Leicester, died a day later at a hospital where he was rushed to after the assault.

A post-mortem examination performed after the attack at Franklin Park in Braunstone Town on Sunday evening identified the cause of death as a neck injury, and more tests will be undertaken.

"The circumstances surrounding Mr Kohli's death are extremely tragic and upsetting, not only for his family and friends but also for the wider community," Detective Inspector Emma Matts, Senior Investigating Officer at Leicestershire Police, stated earlier this week.

Meanwhile, Kohli's family issued a statement via the police, saying they were heartbroken and struggling to cope with the death of a loved and caring person.

"Bhim was a loving husband, dad and granddad. He was also a son, brother and uncle. He adored his grandkids with all his heart and loved spending time with them. He really was such a loving, caring person whose life was centred around his family," the statement read.

"He has always been a very hardworking man and even at the age of 80 he was still very active. One of his great passions was his allotment, he would go every day to tend to his plots and was so proud of them. He also enjoyed walking the family dog Rocky in the park many times a day."

"Our family has lived in the same house in Braunstone for 40 years, so he was very well known in the community - we have been overwhelmed by the messages and support from many who knew him. Our hearts have been completely broken. We are now pulling together as a family to try and support each other through the most difficult time imaginable and would ask for privacy while we do this."

The unrest was sparked by the stabbing murders of three young girls in Southport, northwest England, last week. The incident has been exploited by anti-immigrant and anti-Muslim organisations, resulting in widespread misinformation on social media.

"Indian travellers would be aware of recent disturbances in some parts of the United Kingdom. The High Commission of India in London is closely monitoring the situation. Visitors from India are advised to stay vigilant and exercise due caution while travelling in the UK. It is advisable to follow local news and advisories issued by local security agencies, and to avoid areas where protests are underway," the High Commission of India in London stated.

"It is advisable to follow local news and advisories issued by local security agencies, and to avoid areas where protests are underway," it further said.

Foreign Affairs

Ties with the US and Europe: Keir Starmer has emphasised the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with the United States, stating that the bond between the UK and the US transcends individual leaders. This pragmatic stance is designed to ensure stability and continuity in foreign policy, reassuring allies that the UK remains a steadfast partner regardless of the political climate. By ruling out rejoining the EU single market or customs union, Starmer maintains a commitment to Brexit while exploring ways to reduce trade barriers with the EU. This approach aims to foster economic ties and ease the financial strain of Brexit without compromising political autonomy.

Ukraine: The UK’s pledge to provide £3 billion in military aid to Ukraine under Labour's leadership underscores a firm commitment to supporting Ukraine amidst its conflict with Russia. Starmer’s administration promises unwavering military, financial, diplomatic, and political support for Ukraine, aligning with broader Western efforts to counter Russian aggression. This stance enhances the UK’s international standing and reinforces its role in European security, but it also necessitates careful management of resources and public support at home.

Gaza: Starmer’s intention to recognise a Palestinian state at the appropriate stage of the peace process indicates a balanced and thoughtful approach to Middle Eastern diplomacy. This move could strengthen the UK's relations with Arab nations and promote peace efforts in the region. However, the timing and execution of this recognition will be critical to ensure it contributes to lasting stability rather than exacerbating existing tensions.

China: Labour’s commitment to a long-term and strategic approach in managing relations with China reflects a sensible and measured policy. Given China’s significant global influence and the complexity of Sino-British relations, a strategic approach is essential. This will involve balancing economic interests with human rights concerns and geopolitical considerations, requiring nuanced diplomacy and clear policy objectives.

Domestic Front

Tata Steel: The new government’s decision on the £500 million support package for Tata Steel is pivotal for the UK's industrial future. Supporting the transition to a lower-carbon electric arc furnace aligns with environmental goals and secures jobs in the steel industry. This decision will demonstrate the government’s commitment to sustainable industry practices and economic stability, while also addressing climate change imperatives.

Junior Doctors: The strikes by junior doctors over the past 18 months highlight significant dissatisfaction within the NHS. With junior doctors demanding a 35% pay rise, contrasted with the government’s offer of a 10% increase, resolving this issue is critical. Addressing these grievances promptly and effectively will be essential for maintaining the morale and efficiency of the NHS, especially in the wake of the pandemic. Balancing fiscal responsibility with fair compensation for healthcare workers is paramount.

Royal Mail: The acquisition of Royal Mail by Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky presents both opportunities and challenges. Labour’s commitment to ensuring adherence to the five-year assurances provided by Kretinsky reflects a focus on stability and accountability. Close monitoring of this deal will be necessary to safeguard jobs and services while adapting to the evolving landscape of postal services.

Shein: The potential London listing of Chinese-founded fast fashion retailer Shein could provide a significant boost to the UK market. Labour’s support for this deal indicates a willingness to attract international investment. However, it is crucial to ensure that such deals align with ethical standards and contribute positively to the UK economy. Addressing concerns related to fast fashion’s environmental and labour practices will be essential to securing broad-based support.

Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi and Preet Kaur Gill, who have earlier been vocal advocates for Sikh and other minority issues in UK Parliament, were re-elected for their third consecutive terms. Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, re-elected by the constituents of Slough, expressed his gratitude and commitment to working towards change, unity, and progress under the new Labour government.

He conveyed his appreciation on X (formerly known as Twitter), stressing the collective effort that led to his victory. Similarly, Preet Kaur Gill, who represents Birmingham Edgbaston, celebrated her re-election, thanking her supporters and reaffirming her dedication to serving her community. Among the newly elected Sikh MPs are several first-time parliamentarians who have made significant breakthroughs in their respective constituencies.

Kirith Entwistle, also known as Kirith Ahluwali, made history as the first woman MP for Bolton North East, winning with over 16,000 votes. Sonia Kumar became the first woman MP from Dudley, while Harpreet Kaur Uppal secured the Huddersfield seat. Satvir Kaur triumphed in the Southampton Test constituency with a notable margin, and Warinder Juss won from Wolverhampton West, both joining Parliament for the first time.

Dr Jeevun Sandher and Jas Athwal also made their parliamentary debuts, representing Loughborough and Ilford South, respectively. Additionally, Gurinder Singh Josan won the Smethwick seat, marking his entry into Parliament. The Labour Party's sweeping victory comes after more than a decade in opposition. The party secured 410 seats in the 650-seat House of Commons, while the Conservatives managed to win only 118 seats.

The Labour Party's promises of unity, progress, and a revitalised economy resonated with voters, leading to this unprecedented outcome. 

Initially, Rishi Sunak was considering modifications to limit these visas to only the “best and the brightest” in an effort to reduce migration numbers.

However, UK Prime Minister Sunak's Cabinet colleagues, including prominent figures such as Foreign Secretary David Cameron, voiced concerns about the potential negative impacts of such restrictions. They highlighted that curbing the Graduate Route visas could threaten the financial stability of British universities and harm the UK economy. Universities heavily rely on the tuition fees paid by international students, and a significant reduction in these numbers could lead to severe financial repercussions.

A report by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), submitted on May 14, revealed the substantial dependence of UK universities on international students, particularly from India. The MAC report showed that the top five nationalities account for nearly 75% of all Graduate Route visas, with Indian students constituting over 40%. This proportion is notably higher compared to their share of student visas, which stands at 26%.

In 2023 alone, 1,14,000 Graduate Route visas were granted to main applicants, with an additional 30,000 granted to dependents. The uptake of these visas is largely concentrated among four nationalities: India, Nigeria, China, and Pakistan, which collectively account for 70% of all Graduate Route visas, with Indian nationals making up over 40%.

The initial proposal to restrict the number of graduate visas stemmed from a desire to lower overall migration figures. However, the backlash from within the Cabinet was significant. Key ministers, including Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, Home Secretary James Cleverly, and Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, joined Cameron in expressing their opposition. They argued that the proposed restrictions would not only undermine the financial health of universities but also hinder the UK's economic growth by reducing the influx of skilled graduates who contribute to various sectors.

The government is now contemplating more modest reforms to address potential loopholes and prevent abuse of the immigration system, as reported by The Guardian. These changes are likely to include measures targeting overseas agents who market graduate visa schemes, particularly in countries like India. Such agents could face penalties if they fail to deliver the quality of students they promise. Additionally, there may be stricter requirements for foreign students, including mandatory English language tests such as IELTS, and universities with high dropout rates could risk losing their licences to recruit international students.

A fifth man, Sukhmandeep Singh from Peterborough, was also implicated in the crime. He provided information about Aurman Singh's deliveries on the day he was killed and received a 10-year sentence for manslaughter. During the trial, no clear motive was established for the attack, which left Aurman Singh dead at the side of the road.

Detective Chief Inspector (DCI) Mark Bellamy of West Mercia Police, who led the investigation, expressed satisfaction with the significant sentences imposed on the perpetrators. He stated that these individuals are dangerous and the sentences will prevent them from harming the public further. DCI Bellamy extended his condolences to Aurman Singh's family and said the investigation served as a message to deter violent crime in towns and cities.

At the Stafford Crown Court, Judge Kristina Montgomery KC described the attack as one of "horrifying brutality" and "a very public execution." She noted that Aurman Singh was struck with such force that his skull was fractured, and he sustained severe injuries from various weapons, including being stabbed in the back with such force that it cut through one of his ribs. The young driver died at the scene.

Aurman Singh's family issued a statement expressing the profound impact of his loss on their lives. They noted the pain of a mother losing her son and a sister growing up without her brother, emphasising the enduring emotional toll the tragedy has taken. The family hopes that their experience serves as a warning to others and prevents similar tragedies.

They expressed gratitude to the police for their diligent investigation and support during their difficult time. The family also acknowledged the irreplaceable loss and the challenges they face in coping with their new reality.

The sentences followed a six-week trial at the Stafford Crown Court, where the five men were found guilty last month. 

As per the new tougher UK family visa rules introduced, individuals will now have to meet a higher income requirement to qualify as sponsors for family visas which has been surged from 18,600 pounds to 29,000 pounds - an increase of more than 55 per cent – with a subsequent elevation to 38,700 pounds slated for early next year. 

Official statement of UK government reads, "Today's change comes as the Home Secretary meets his commitment to implement his major package of reforms to the immigration system within weeks of announcing them - which came following the unveiling of measures to tighten the student visa route in May 2023."

The UK Home Office stated that this increase represents the final step in Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Home Secretary James Cleverly's initiative to reduce legal migration and ensure that newcomers do not impose financial strain on taxpayers.

Cleverly emphasised the challenges posed by mass migration, acknowledging that finding a solution to reduce migration to levels deemed acceptable by the British public is complex. He underscored the government's commitment to taking decisive action swiftly, fulfilling promises made to address the issue.

James Cleverly statement reads, “I promised action and we have delivered at remarkable speed. We've acted to cut unsustainable numbers, to protect British workers and their wages, to ensure those bringing family to the UK do not burden taxpayers, and to build an immigration system fit for the future - and one the public can rightly have confidence in." 

Other Rules and regulations introduced by UK govt 

• UK government implemented stringent regulations on student visas
• Restricting care workers from sponsoring family members to join them in the UK
• Initiating a rapid review of the Graduate route for international students by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to prevent misuse and uphold the standards of UK higher education.
• 66 per cent escalation in the health surcharge for foreign nationals accessing the National Health Service (NHS). 

Known for its cultural vibrancy and diversity, city is providing a rich and dynamic environment that appeals to young people interested in different cultures and experiences.

After the tragic and heart-breaking tales of several Indian youths across foreign shores, another horrific incident from London came to limelight which gripped tensions, scare and chaos worldwide. 

In the recent stressful incident, 23-year-old Indian youth Gurashman Singh Bhatia , a student of Loughborough University, has been missing from East London since December 15 since 3 am. He was last seen in Canary Wharf, East London in black jumper with black and blue beanie. 

Who is Gurashman Singh Bhatia? 

Hailing from Punjab Jalandhar's Model Town from a very renowned family, GS Bhatia completed his primary and secondary education from Delhi Public School, Jalandhar and has always been bright student - in both academics and co-curricular activities. 

GS Bhatia shifted to London to  pursue his  postgraduate from Loughborough University and has been issued a two-year UK residence permit, which was valid until June 2, 2024.

Birthday turns into a nightmare 

Gurashman Singh Bhatia turned 23 on December 15, 2023, the day he went missing. It is indeed the most distressing and stressful moment for days his family and his loved ones. 

GS Bhatia family left for London

Worried family of Gurashman Singh Bhatia left for London in search of their son who has been reported missing since December 15, 2023. 

BJP Leader seeks S Jaishankar’s help 

Manjinder Singh Sirsa, a BJP leader, reported the incident on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to bring it to the attention of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

He also urged Loughborough University and the Indian High Commission to assist in his search.

"An Indian student named GS Bhatia, who studies at  @lborouniversity in United Kingdom, has been missing from East London since December 15. While we have apprised @HCI_London; we are still waiting for some concrete action from the Govt of UK in locating him," he added.

An Indian student named GS Bhatia, who studies at @lborouniversity in United Kingdom, has been missing from East London since December 15.
While we have apprised @HCI_London; we are still waiting for some concrete action from the Govt of UK in locating him. pic.twitter.com/0dNw8VV6m3

— Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) December 18, 2023

Anyone with GS Bhatia info to contact on below numbers 

Anyone with information of GS Bhatia has been asked to contact on the following numbers: 917841000005 or 447387431258. 

PTC News urges people to spread the word and provided two contact numbers for anyone with information about the Indian student. 

In the recent times, dreams of Indian youth pursuing education in foreign shores is turning into nightmares, with many grappling with mental health issues, robbery, missing cases. 

Several such cases of Indian youths abroad have created a state of panic back home in India. Now parents are either not willing to send their children abroad or whose wards are already settled there are in a state of anxiety and panic.

Manjinder Singh Sirsa, a BJP leader, reported the incident on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to bring it to the attention of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

GS Bhatia was last seen on December 15 in Canary Wharf, East London, said Manjinder Sirsa.

He also urged Loughborough University and the Indian High Commission to assist in his search.

"GS Bhatia, a student of Loughborough University, has been missing since Dec 15. Last seen in Canary Wharf, East London. Bringing to the kind attention of @DrSJaishankar Ji We urge @lborouniversity & @HCI_London to join efforts in locating him. Your assistance is crucial. Please share and spread the word," Manjinder Sirsa said.

G S Bhatia, a student of Loughborough University, has been missing since Dec 15. Last seen in Canary Wharf, East London.
Bringing to the kind attention of @DrSJaishankar Ji
We urge @lborouniversity & @HCI_London to join efforts in locating him. Your assistance is crucial. Please… pic.twitter.com/iFSqpvWVV8

— Manjinder Singh Sirsa (@mssirsa) December 16, 2023

The BJP leader also shared the residence permit and college identification card of Bhatia on X. He urged people to spread the word and provided two contact numbers for anyone with information about the Indian student.

Rishi Sunak, expressing concern over high immigration levels, shared on social media, "Immigration is too high. Today we're taking radical action to bring it down. These steps will make sure that immigration always benefits the UK."

The outlined measures include prohibiting overseas students from bringing family members to the UK, unless they are pursuing postgraduate research degrees. Additionally, the salary threshold for foreign workers will rise to £38,000 (approximately Rs 40,01,932).

Interior minister James Cleverly stated that skilled overseas workers would need to earn £38,700 from early next year, a significant increase from the current level of £26,200 (approximately Rs 27,58,718.52).

The Home Office declared, "Our new immigration plan aims to substantially reduce net migration and establish a system that serves the British people."

Key points of the UK Immigration Plan

Preventing overseas care workers from bringing family dependents and mandating care firms in England to be registered with the Care Quality Commission to sponsor visas.

Elevating the earnings threshold to £38,700 from the spring for skilled worker routes, aligning with the median full-time wage for these roles.

Discontinuing discounted shortage labour from overseas by terminating the 20% salary discount for shortage occupations and restructuring the Shortage Occupation List.

Doubling the minimum income for family visas to £38,700, matching the threshold for skilled workers.

Implementing stricter regulations on students bringing family members to the UK. The Migration Advisory Committee will review the graduate route.

UK PM Rishi Sunak has consistently expressed concerns about the elevated immigration levels. Immigration is anticipated to be a central issue in the upcoming general election, with the Labour Party currently considered a leading contender.

Legal migration has surged since the UK formally exited the European Union in January 2020. In 2021, net migration reached 488,000. Additionally, Sunak faces challenges in reducing irregular arrivals crossing the English Channel, with over 28,000 undertaking this perilous journey this year.

The government's plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda faced legal setbacks, as the courts recently ruled against this approach.

Gurmit Kaur's case first came to light back in 2019. However, it has continued to garner community support in the West Midlands region of England, with her supporters fighting against her deportation.

Who is Gurmit Kaur?

Gurmit Kaur, 78, moved to the UK in 2009 and has lived in Smethwick ever since, according to an online petition that has garnered over 65,000 signatures since it was launched in July 2020.

Recently, the hashtag "We Are All Gurmit Kaur" has been trending on social media as the local community rallies around the widow.

Kaur first visited the UK in 2009 to attend a wedding and lived with her son at the time.

She became dependent on the kindness of strangers after becoming estranged from her family. Gurmit has widespread support within her community, where she regularly volunteers at local charities.

What is the case?

"Gurmit Kaur has no family to turn to in the UK and no family to return to in Punjab, so the local Sikh community of Smethwick have adopted her," according to the petition posted on Change.Org.

Gurmit applied to stay but was denied, despite the fact that she has no family in Punjab, India, says the petition. 

"Gurmit is a very kind woman, even though she has nothing she is still generous and will always give what she can, when she can. Most of her days are spent volunteering at the local gurdwara,” it further stated.

However, the UK Home Office claimed that Kaur was still in contact with people in her home village in Punjab and would be able to re-adjust to life there.

'A Derelict House, No Food & No Heating'

Salman Mirza, an immigration advisor for the Brushstroke Community Project who started the petition and is one of those assisting Kaur with her visa appeals, told the BBC that this process has been like torture for her.

"She has a derelict house in the village with no roof and would have to find heating, food, and resources in a village she hasn't visited in 11 years. It's like water torture, a slow death; she's never had the right to work and provide for herself," he explained.

Four men are currently in police custody under suspicion of the murder, which took place in the Hounslow area during the early hours of Wednesday.

Specialist crime unit detectives are actively reconstructing the sequence of events leading up to the untimely death of 17-year-old Simarjeet Singh Nangpal. They have reassured the community of their dedicated efforts to ensure justice for the victim.

Detective Inspector Martin Thorpe stated, "We are tirelessly working to apprehend those responsible for Simarjeet’s tragic death, while his family copes with the profound loss." He added, "Four individuals have been detained, and our investigation remains ongoing." All suspects were apprehended at the incident location.

In a bold move, Jenkyns shared her no-confidence letter on social media, declaring, "Enough is enough... It is time for Rishi Sunak to go." She also criticised Sunak for the removal of "democratically elected leader, Boris Johnson, who bravely fought for Brexit when parliament was in deadlock."

Expressing her discontent, Jenkyns accused Sunak of purging the center-right from the cabinet and highlighted the dismissal of Suella Braverman, who she described as the lone cabinet member "with the courage to speak the truth about the appalling state of our streets and a two-tier policing system that leaves [the] Jewish community in fear for their lives and safety."

Jenkyns took to social media immediately after the news of Braverman's sacking, asserting that she was dismissed for "speaking the truth" and criticizing Sunak for yielding to leftist pressures.

In an interview with GB News, Jenkyns expressed hope that her colleagues would join her in submitting their no-confidence letters, emphasising that they are collectively "fighting for our country now."

A potential vote of confidence on Sunak's leadership within the Conservative Party could transpire if 15 percent of his MPs submit letters signaling their desire for a change in leadership.

Suella Braverman, of Indian origin, has been succeeded by James Cleverly, the former UK Foreign Minister. Simultaneously, the return of former UK Prime Minister David Cameron to the Sunak-led cabinet has been noted, as he assumes the role of Foreign Minister. The political landscape continues to evolve amidst these significant changes.