The United Kingdom's Home Office is facing legal action amid worries that minors would be deported to Rwanda because staff incorrectly identify them as adults, according to reports. Watch in for more details!

UK Rwanda deportation plan: Big hiccups

UK Home Office faces legal action over kids being sent to Rwanda

The United Kingdom parliament on Monday (April 22) passed the controversial Rwanda migrant bill which will allow the government to deport asylum-seekers to the East African nation.

The United Kingdom parliament on Monday (April 22) passed the controversial Rwanda migrant bill which will allow the government to deport asylum-seekers to the East African nation. The bill was passed after a lengthy tussle between the House of Commons and the House of Lords. The bill, after being scrutinised by the members of the unelected upper house, was repeatedly sent back with suggested amendments to MPs in the lower chamber. However, eventually, they agreed that the bill did not require any further changes and could now become a law. Reacting to the passing of the bill, Home Secretary James Cleverly called it a “landmark moment in our plan to stop the boats”. Also Read: Sunak's Rwanda Policy: Sunak plans to use leased RAF voyagers to deport migrants: Report In a video shared on social media, Cleverly said: “The Safety of Rwanda Bill has passed in Parliament and it will become law within days. The Act will prevent people from abusing the law by using false human rights claims to block removals. And it makes clear that the UK Parliament is sovereign, giving the Government the power to reject interim blocking measures imposed by European courts." “I promised to do what was necessary to clear the path for the first flight. That’s what we have done. Now we’re working day in and day out to get flights off the ground," he added. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, along with his ruling Conservatives, has been trying to push through the legislation which will compel judges to see the East African nation as a safe third country. The absence of any deportations, two years after the bill was first introduced, was perceived as a major failure for Rishi Sunak, who had earlier highlighted stopping small boats as a key priority. The passing of the bill has brought the prime minister close to the first deportation flight which is likely to take off soon. Sunak had asked parliamentarians to “sit there tonight and vote no matter how late it goes” before the beginning of the fourth round of ‘ping pong’ between the Commons and the Lords. Sunak plans first migrant flight to Rwanda in next 10-12 weeks British PM Sunak on Monday (April 22) said that the first flight filled with asylum seekers to Rwanda will leave in 10-12 weeks. While addressing a press conference, Sunak said that he cannot outline the plan's exact operational details, but added that specific preparations have been made by the government. Watch: Rishi Sunak: First deportation flights will leave UK for Rwanda in 10-12 weeks "I can confirm that we've put an airfield on standby, booked commercial charter planes for specific slots, and we have 500 highly trained individuals ready to escort illegal migrants all the way to Rwanda with 300 more trained in the coming weeks. We are ready. Plans are in place. And these flights will go come what may," Sunak said. "Fundamental change in the global equation on migration. If you come here illegally, you will not be able to stay," he added. As per the timeline decided by Sunak, the first flight will leave in July. (With inputs from agencies)

UK Parliament passes controversial Rwanda migrant bill after a two-year tussle

Protests against the far-right Alternative for Germany party are gaining momentum in the wake of a report that two senior party members joined&nbsp;a meeting&nbsp;to discuss plans for the mass deportation of citizens of foreign origin.

While the party has long railed against immigrants, the proposals for "unassimilated citizens" to be deported to "a model state in north Africa", reported by outlet Correctiv, have struck a nerve in Germany. Some have compared them to the Nazis' initial plan to deport European Jews to Madagascar.

"The line has long since been crossed," protester Stephan Kalsh said at a demonstration in Cologne on Tuesday evening, where many protesters called for the party to be banned.

It was the latest in a wave of protests around the country that have attracted tens of thousands since the story broke last week. Some have been attended by high-ranking officials like Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock.

The AfD, which is polling second in nationwide surveys, has denied the plans are party policy. Co-leader Alice Weidel parted ways with one of her advisers who participated in the talks.

Still, Germany's domestic spy chief Thomas Haldenwang has warned of extremist movements within the AfD, which is under security surveillance.

The reports of the plans have drawn widespread condemnation from political and security leaders. Scholz has urged democrats to stand against far-right&nbsp;"fanatics"&nbsp;while Haldenwang called for the "silent majority" to wake up.

"I am grateful that tens of thousands of people are taking to the streets across Germany these days against racism, hate speech and in favour of our liberal democracy," Scholz said on social media platform X on Wednesday.

"We democrats are many - many more than those who want to divide," he added.

Images of thousands of citizens braving sub-zero temperatures and snow to protest against the AfD in cities nationwide suggest they may just be.

"Nazis, no thank you", "It feels like 1933, AfD ban now!" and "Investigate banning AfD" read banners at a protest in Berlin last Friday.

Other protests have been scheduled for later on Wednesday in Berlin and on Friday in Hamburg.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Putin planning World War 3? Leaked documents from German MoD reveal NATO's worst nightmare

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<h2 data-testid="Heading">Elections loom in east Germany</h2>

Weidel on Tuesday attacked what she called the use of the Correctiv report to misrepresent the AfD. She said the party aimed to exhaust all legal means to prevent illegal migration, restrict nationalizations and deport migrants suspected of terrorism.

"Whoever has German citizenship belongs without question and without doubt to the German nation," Weidel told a news conference. "And that´s precisely why the German citizenship may not be sold off cheap and distributed with a watering can."

The party has shifted more into focus this year ahead of the European Parliamentary elections and three state elections in eastern Germany in September where it is polling in first place. This is expected to make it much harder for mainstream parties, which have ruled out working with the AfD, to form workable governments.

Support for the 11-year-old AfD&nbsp;has&nbsp;soared over the past year as it has capitalized on discontent with the ruling coalition's handling of a multitude of crises, from the Ukraine war and inflation to public services overwhelmed by immigration.

Public infighting has made Scholz's government one of the least popular in modern German history.

There is no evidence yet of the Correctiv report damaging support for the AfD, which remained steady in polls released this week.

Political analysts say the strength of the AfD has already influenced the political debate, contributing to&nbsp;tougher policy&nbsp;and rhetoric on irregular migration.

Politicians this week discussed the possibility of calling on the constitutional court to ban the AfD although most concurred it risked backfiring. The hurdles to a ban are high and the party could stand to win from portraying itself as a victim of the establishment.

Protests against the far-right Alternative for Germany party are gaining momentum in the wake of a report that two senior party members joined a meeting to discuss plans for the mass deportation of citizens of foreign origin.

Protests against the far-right Alternative for Germany party are gaining momentum in the wake of a report that two senior party members joined a meeting to discuss plans for the mass deportation of citizens of foreign origin. While the party has long railed against immigrants, the proposals for "unassimilated citizens" to be deported to "a model state in north Africa", reported by outlet Correctiv, have struck a nerve in Germany. Some have compared them to the Nazis' initial plan to deport European Jews to Madagascar. "The line has long since been crossed," protester Stephan Kalsh said at a demonstration in Cologne on Tuesday evening, where many protesters called for the party to be banned. It was the latest in a wave of protests around the country that have attracted tens of thousands since the story broke last week. Some have been attended by high-ranking officials like Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock. The AfD, which is polling second in nationwide surveys, has denied the plans are party policy. Co-leader Alice Weidel parted ways with one of her advisers who participated in the talks. Still, Germany's domestic spy chief Thomas Haldenwang has warned of extremist movements within the AfD, which is under security surveillance. The reports of the plans have drawn widespread condemnation from political and security leaders. Scholz has urged democrats to stand against far-right "fanatics" while Haldenwang called for the "silent majority" to wake up. "I am grateful that tens of thousands of people are taking to the streets across Germany these days against racism, hate speech and in favour of our liberal democracy," Scholz said on social media platform X on Wednesday. "We democrats are many - many more than those who want to divide," he added. Images of thousands of citizens braving sub-zero temperatures and snow to protest against the AfD in cities nationwide suggest they may just be. "Nazis, no thank you", "It feels like 1933, AfD ban now!" and "Investigate banning AfD" read banners at a protest in Berlin last Friday. Other protests have been scheduled for later on Wednesday in Berlin and on Friday in Hamburg. Also watch | Gravitas: Putin planning World War 3? Leaked documents from German MoD reveal NATO's worst nightmare Elections loom in east Germany Weidel on Tuesday attacked what she called the use of the Correctiv report to misrepresent the AfD. She said the party aimed to exhaust all legal means to prevent illegal migration, restrict nationalizations and deport migrants suspected of terrorism. "Whoever has German citizenship belongs without question and without doubt to the German nation," Weidel told a news conference. "And that´s precisely why the German citizenship may not be sold off cheap and distributed with a watering can." The party has shifted more into focus this year ahead of the European Parliamentary elections and three state elections in eastern Germany in September where it is polling in first place. This is expected to make it much harder for mainstream parties, which have ruled out working with the AfD, to form workable governments. Support for the 11-year-old AfD has soared over the past year as it has capitalized on discontent with the ruling coalition's handling of a multitude of crises, from the Ukraine war and inflation to public services overwhelmed by immigration. Public infighting has made Scholz's government one of the least popular in modern German history. There is no evidence yet of the Correctiv report damaging support for the AfD, which remained steady in polls released this week. Political analysts say the strength of the AfD has already influenced the political debate, contributing to tougher policy and rhetoric on irregular migration. Politicians this week discussed the possibility of calling on the constitutional court to ban the AfD although most concurred it risked backfiring. The hurdles to a ban are high and the party could stand to win from portraying itself as a victim of the establishment.

Germans protest nationwide after far-right meeting on deportation plan

Pakistan has begun a nationwide crackdown on undocumented immigrants, potentially impacting nearly two million people, particularly Afghan nationals residing in the country.

This decision has led to tens of thousands of Afghan migrants attempting to leave Pakistan, fearing arrest or forced expulsion.

The move comes as Pakistan's Interior Ministry announced that all foreign nationals living in the country without legal status had 28 days to leave voluntarily or face deportation.

November 1 was set as the last day for undocumented immigrants to leave Pakistan.&nbsp;

<h2>Targeted measures and growing exodus</h2>

In response to this announcement, there has been a surge of Afghan refugees heading towards the border crossings, desperately seeking to repatriate to Afghanistan and evade potential deportation.

This exodus has been particularly notable in Karachi's Sohrab Goth area, one of Pakistan's largest Afghan settlements.

Here, a bus service operator told Reuters that he had increased the frequency of services to cope with the escalating departures.

Prior to this announcement, he operated only one bus per week, but now, the demand has surged, requiring four to five buses per week.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-builds-its-own-al-aqsa-mosque-in-kabul-in-hopes-of-liberating-jerusalem-652224">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban builds its own ‘Al-Aqsa mosque’ in Kabul in hopes of ‘liberating’ Jerusalem</a>

<h2>What are the reasons behind the forced exodus</h2>

The decision to crack down on undocumented immigrants, particularly Afghan nationals, is multifaceted.

Pakistan has faced an upsurge in terror attacks, with the government linking a significant number of these attacks to Afghan nationals.

The rising number of terrorist incidents prompted the Pakistani government to address the issue. The interior ministry issued the ultimatum for all undocumented migrants to leave voluntarily or face deportation.

Pakistan has reported a total of 24 suicide attacks in the country since the beginning of the year, with 14 of these attacks being attributed to Afghan nationals.

Data from the South Asian Terrorism Portal reveals that the country has experienced 418 terror attacks in the current year, an increase from the previous year's total of 365 attacks.

This rising threat has raised concerns about Pakistan's security.

Additionally, the Pakistani government has accused the Taliban government in Afghanistan of providing safe haven to militant groups responsible for these attacks.

The Pakistani Taliban (TTP), in particular, has been cited as an organization that enjoys the Taliban's support in Afghanistan. This situation has led to strained relations between Pakistan and the Afghan government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-group-claims-responsibility-for-blast-that-killed-two-in-kabul-652149">Also read |&nbsp;Afghanistan: Islamic State group claims responsibility for blast that killed two in Kabul</a>

<h2>Economic challenges and job displacement&nbsp;</h2>

While security concerns have driven the crackdown, Pakistan is also grappling with its most severe economic crisis.

The country is experiencing soaring inflation, with rates reaching as high as 31.4 per cent, leading to a significant increase in the cost of essential goods and food items.

In this context, many Pakistanis believe that Afghan nationals are taking away job opportunities, exacerbating unemployment and economic hardships.

Pakistan hopes that by deporting nearly two million Afghan nationals, it can alleviate unemployment and provide a boost to the country's economy.

This measure is part of Pakistan's broader strategy to address its economic challenges and political objectives, with the deportation of Afghan nationals serving as both a security and economic move.

Some experts also suggest that Pakistan's action aims to exert pressure on the Afghan government in Kabul, seeking to compel it to meet certain demands and take measures to contain the activities of militant groups that pose a threat to Pakistan's security.

Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan authorises the arrest of illegal foreign nationals, as the deadline expires

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<h2>How has the Taliban responded?</h2>

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has expressed its discontent with Pakistan's decision to deport Afghan nationals, deeming it "unacceptable."

The Taliban government has asserted that Afghan refugees have no involvement in Pakistan's security problems and should be tolerated.

The deportation of Afghan nationals has added complexity to the already intricate relationship between Pakistan and the Taliban government in Afghanistan.

Internationally, this move has drawn concern from human rights organisations and the United Nations.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has warned that the deportation policy could trigger a "human rights catastrophe."

Other human rights watchdogs have criticised Pakistan's decision to force asylum-seekers to leave, particularly given the dire circumstances in Afghanistan.

Many Afghan asylum seekers include former government employees, activists, journalists, and others who face threats, torture, and detention by the Taliban in Afghanistan.

<h2>Future of Pakistan's deportation policy</h2>

Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to implementing the deportation policy, despite international and domestic criticism.

The government has established deportation centers across the country, indicating its determination to detain and repatriate Afghan nationals.

In addition to arresting foreigners without proper documentation, authorities plan to move them to temporary centers where they will receive basic necessities such as medical care and accommodation.

The deportation of illegal foreign nationals will occur in phases, with individuals lacking travel documents facing deportation in the initial phase.

Pakistan's government has defended its actions, asserting that they align with international norms and principles and are in compliance with the country's sovereign domestic laws.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan has begun a nationwide crackdown on undocumented immigrants, potentially impacting nearly two million people, particularly Afghan nationals residing in the country.

Pakistan has begun a nationwide crackdown on undocumented immigrants, potentially impacting nearly two million people, particularly Afghan nationals residing in the country. This decision has led to tens of thousands of Afghan migrants attempting to leave Pakistan, fearing arrest or forced expulsion. The move comes as Pakistan's Interior Ministry announced that all foreign nationals living in the country without legal status had 28 days to leave voluntarily or face deportation. November 1 was set as the last day for undocumented immigrants to leave Pakistan. Targeted measures and growing exodus In response to this announcement, there has been a surge of Afghan refugees heading towards the border crossings, desperately seeking to repatriate to Afghanistan and evade potential deportation. This exodus has been particularly notable in Karachi's Sohrab Goth area, one of Pakistan's largest Afghan settlements. Here, a bus service operator told Reuters that he had increased the frequency of services to cope with the escalating departures. Prior to this announcement, he operated only one bus per week, but now, the demand has surged, requiring four to five buses per week. Also read | Taliban builds its own ‘Al-Aqsa mosque’ in Kabul in hopes of ‘liberating’ Jerusalem What are the reasons behind the forced exodus The decision to crack down on undocumented immigrants, particularly Afghan nationals, is multifaceted. Pakistan has faced an upsurge in terror attacks, with the government linking a significant number of these attacks to Afghan nationals. The rising number of terrorist incidents prompted the Pakistani government to address the issue. The interior ministry issued the ultimatum for all undocumented migrants to leave voluntarily or face deportation. Pakistan has reported a total of 24 suicide attacks in the country since the beginning of the year, with 14 of these attacks being attributed to Afghan nationals. Data from the South Asian Terrorism Portal reveals that the country has experienced 418 terror attacks in the current year, an increase from the previous year's total of 365 attacks. This rising threat has raised concerns about Pakistan's security. Additionally, the Pakistani government has accused the Taliban government in Afghanistan of providing safe haven to militant groups responsible for these attacks. The Pakistani Taliban (TTP), in particular, has been cited as an organization that enjoys the Taliban's support in Afghanistan. This situation has led to strained relations between Pakistan and the Afghan government. Also read | Afghanistan: Islamic State group claims responsibility for blast that killed two in Kabul Economic challenges and job displacement While security concerns have driven the crackdown, Pakistan is also grappling with its most severe economic crisis. The country is experiencing soaring inflation, with rates reaching as high as 31.4 per cent, leading to a significant increase in the cost of essential goods and food items. In this context, many Pakistanis believe that Afghan nationals are taking away job opportunities, exacerbating unemployment and economic hardships. Pakistan hopes that by deporting nearly two million Afghan nationals, it can alleviate unemployment and provide a boost to the country's economy. This measure is part of Pakistan's broader strategy to address its economic challenges and political objectives, with the deportation of Afghan nationals serving as both a security and economic move. Some experts also suggest that Pakistan's action aims to exert pressure on the Afghan government in Kabul, seeking to compel it to meet certain demands and take measures to contain the activities of militant groups that pose a threat to Pakistan's security. Also watch | Pakistan authorises the arrest of illegal foreign nationals, as the deadline expires How has the Taliban responded? The Taliban government in Afghanistan has expressed its discontent with Pakistan's decision to deport Afghan nationals, deeming it "unacceptable." The Taliban government has asserted that Afghan refugees have no involvement in Pakistan's security problems and should be tolerated. The deportation of Afghan nationals has added complexity to the already intricate relationship between Pakistan and the Taliban government in Afghanistan. Internationally, this move has drawn concern from human rights organisations and the United Nations. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has warned that the deportation policy could trigger a "human rights catastrophe." Other human rights watchdogs have criticised Pakistan's decision to force asylum-seekers to leave, particularly given the dire circumstances in Afghanistan. Many Afghan asylum seekers include former government employees, activists, journalists, and others who face threats, torture, and detention by the Taliban in Afghanistan. Future of Pakistan's deportation policy Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to implementing the deportation policy, despite international and domestic criticism. The government has established deportation centers across the country, indicating its determination to detain and repatriate Afghan nationals. In addition to arresting foreigners without proper documentation, authorities plan to move them to temporary centers where they will receive basic necessities such as medical care and accommodation. The deportation of illegal foreign nationals will occur in phases, with individuals lacking travel documents facing deportation in the initial phase. Pakistan's government has defended its actions, asserting that they align with international norms and principles and are in compliance with the country's sovereign domestic laws. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | Why is Pakistan asking 1.7 million Afghan nationals to leave its territory?

Germany's interior minister Nancy Faeser said that those backing Hamas must be deported from the country.

"If we are able to deport Hamas supporters, we must do this," Faeser reportedly said after speaking with officials at the Federal Criminal Police Office. "Our security authorities have currently placed an even stronger focus on the Islamist scene," Faeser added.

The minister also spoke of the recent killings in&nbsp;Brussels, indicating that there is a rise in tensions in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

<h2>Worldwide protests&nbsp;</h2>

There are rallies being organised all across the world with some supporting Israelis while others backing Palestinians and there&nbsp;is a widespread concern over heightened antisemitism in Germany.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/republicans-obstructs-jim-jordans-third-bid-to-become-house-speaker-25-votes-against-him-649375">Republicans obstruct Jim Jordan's third bid to become House speaker, 25 vote against him</a>

Recently, there was an attempted attack on a Berlin synagogue with petrol bombs. Clashes between pro-Palestinian protesters and police also erupted in Berlin and other cities.

As the war between Israel and Hamas is nearly in its third week, the US also issued a worldwide caution for American citizens who are traveling overseas. FBI alerted saying that there is a potential for terrorist attack on Jewish and Muslim Americans.&nbsp;

In the same vein, the German minister Faeser made an appeal to citizens to inform authorities if they see any ongoing "propaganda" supporting Hamas. Social&nbsp;media platforms have also come under the scrutiny of regulators for failing to tackle the menace of disinformation being propagated on them against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-detains-another-american-journalist-heres-what-we-know-649362">Explained: Russia detains another American journalist. Here’s what we know</a>

The house of a 38-year-old German national was raided and searched following an Instagram post where he allegedly defended October 7 Hamas&nbsp;attack on Israel which resulted in the killing of innocent civilians, including women and children.&nbsp;

"We will not allow this vile hatred and horrific violence to spread," Faeser reportedly said.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/human-rights-watch-accuses-israel-of-using-phosphorus-bombs-world-at-war-world-at-war-649381">Human Rights Watch accuses Israel of using Phosphorus Bombs |World at War | World at War</a>

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She also said that German police have recorded over 1,100 offences in connection to the Israel-Gaza war since the deadly strikes in early October.&nbsp;"These are preliminary figures... and investigations are underway everywhere," Faeser said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Germany's interior minister Nancy Faeser said that those backing Hamas must be deported from the country. "If we are able to deport Hamas supporters, we must do this," Faeser reportedly said after speaking with officials at the Federal Criminal Police Office.

Germany's interior minister Nancy Faeser said that those backing Hamas must be deported from the country. "If we are able to deport Hamas supporters, we must do this," Faeser reportedly said after speaking with officials at the Federal Criminal Police Office. "Our security authorities have currently placed an even stronger focus on the Islamist scene," Faeser added. The minister also spoke of the recent killings in Brussels, indicating that there is a rise in tensions in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Worldwide protests There are rallies being organised all across the world with some supporting Israelis while others backing Palestinians and there is a widespread concern over heightened antisemitism in Germany. Also Read | Republicans obstruct Jim Jordan's third bid to become House speaker, 25 vote against him Recently, there was an attempted attack on a Berlin synagogue with petrol bombs. Clashes between pro-Palestinian protesters and police also erupted in Berlin and other cities. As the war between Israel and Hamas is nearly in its third week, the US also issued a worldwide caution for American citizens who are traveling overseas. FBI alerted saying that there is a potential for terrorist attack on Jewish and Muslim Americans. In the same vein, the German minister Faeser made an appeal to citizens to inform authorities if they see any ongoing "propaganda" supporting Hamas. Social media platforms have also come under the scrutiny of regulators for failing to tackle the menace of disinformation being propagated on them against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war. Also Read | Explained: Russia detains another American journalist. Here’s what we know The house of a 38-year-old German national was raided and searched following an Instagram post where he allegedly defended October 7 Hamas attack on Israel which resulted in the killing of innocent civilians, including women and children. "We will not allow this vile hatred and horrific violence to spread," Faeser reportedly said. Watch | Human Rights Watch accuses Israel of using Phosphorus Bombs |World at War | World at War × She also said that German police have recorded over 1,100 offences in connection to the Israel-Gaza war since the deadly strikes in early October. "These are preliminary figures... and investigations are underway everywhere," Faeser said. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'We must do this': German minister supports deportation of those backing Hamas

The UK Supreme Court will test Sunak's controversial Rwanda Deportation Policy. This week, the country's highest court will examine the UK's contentious practice of sending asylum applicants to Rwanda. The outcome of the case may potentially overturn Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's most important immigration initiative.

UK: Big plea on legality of migrant deportation

The Biden administration to start deporting Venezuelans who crossed into the country illegally, officials said on Thursday. US’ latest attempt comes amid a migrant surge at the US-Mexico border. Secretary of state Antony Blinken called the new policy “a key piece” of the administration’s approach to migration.

US to resume deportation of Venezuelan migrants

Britain's plan to send asylum seekers to Rwanda will cost £169,000 ($215,035) per person, according to the first detailed government assessment of a high-stakes promise to tackle record numbers of people arriving in small boats. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's Conservative government wants to send thousands of migrants more than 4,000 miles (6,400 km) away to Rwanda as part of a deal with the central African country agreed last year.

UK: Deporting asylum seekers to Rwanda will cost £169,000 a person

Canadian authorities, in a recent development, have decided against the immediate deportation of Indian students who were ensnared in an alleged immigration scam, wherein they arrived in the country with fraudulent university admission letters, as per media reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Canada's immigration minister Sean Fraser on Wednesday said that a task force has been established to thoroughly investigate each case.&nbsp;The primary objective is to distinguish between genuine students and those who tried to game the system and carried out this fraud. Those found to be complicit in the scam will face legal prosecution under Canadian law, the immigration minister said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lg-reviews-amarnath-yatra-arrangements-in-pahalgam-over-60k-troops-to-be-deployed-for-security-604339">India: LG reviews Amarnath Yatra arrangements in Pahalgam, over 60k troops to be deployed for security</a>

"Only those candidates found genuine or victims of fraud will be allowed to stay in Canada. But those found to be guilty will be prosecuted under Canadian law," he said as quoted by media portals.&nbsp;

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Ma déclaration concernant la situation à laquelle sont confrontés les étudiants internationaux ayant reçu des lettres d'acceptation frauduleuses: <a href="https://t.co/nbNw3yAcma">https://t.co/nbNw3yAcma</a>. Votre bien-être reste notre priorité, et on prend des mesures pour résoudre ce problème. Sommaire ci-dessous.
— Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanFraserMP/status/1669041098465898497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Temporary suspension of deportation</h2>

The Canadian government last week temporarily halted the deportation of these students following protests against their forced repatriation. However, the future course of action and the duration of this relief were not immediately clarified.

<h2>Scam background</h2>

The Canada Border Services Agency recently issued deportation notices to approximately 700 Indian students, primarily from Punjab, after discovering that their admission letters to Canadian universities were counterfeit.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shark-that-ate-russian-tourist-on-camera-to-be-mummified-put-on-display-604333">Shark that ate Russian tourist on camera to be mummified, put on display</a>

While most of these students arrived in Canada in 2018, the issue of fake letters only came to light five years later when they applied for permanent residency.

<h2>Government stance, international support</h2>

This issue garnered attention in the Canadian parliament, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasising the need to identify the culprits rather than penalise the victims. Trudeau expressed support for the victims, stating that they would have an opportunity to present evidence in their defence. He also acknowledged the substantial contributions made by international students to the country.

Watch | UK Police seek motive for Nottingham murders, man arrested after police finds three dead

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"Victims of this fraud will have an opportunity to demonstrate and present evidence for their case. We recognise the immense contributions that the international students bring to our country," Trudeau had said at the time.

Furthermore, India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar previously stated that the Indian government raised the matter with Canadian authorities. It was agreed upon that it would be unfair to deport the students if they were innocent parties in the scam.

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Canadian authorities, in a recent development, have decided against the immediate deportation of Indian students who were ensnared in an alleged immigration scam, wherein they arrived in the country with fraudulent university admission letters, as per media reports.

Canadian authorities, in a recent development, have decided against the immediate deportation of Indian students who were ensnared in an alleged immigration scam, wherein they arrived in the country with fraudulent university admission letters, as per media reports. Canada's immigration minister Sean Fraser on Wednesday said that a task force has been established to thoroughly investigate each case. The primary objective is to distinguish between genuine students and those who tried to game the system and carried out this fraud. Those found to be complicit in the scam will face legal prosecution under Canadian law, the immigration minister said. Also Read | India: LG reviews Amarnath Yatra arrangements in Pahalgam, over 60k troops to be deployed for security "Only those candidates found genuine or victims of fraud will be allowed to stay in Canada. But those found to be guilty will be prosecuted under Canadian law," he said as quoted by media portals. Ma déclaration concernant la situation à laquelle sont confrontés les étudiants internationaux ayant reçu des lettres d'acceptation frauduleuses: https://t.co/nbNw3yAcma. Votre bien-être reste notre priorité, et on prend des mesures pour résoudre ce problème. Sommaire ci-dessous. — Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) June 14, 2023 × Temporary suspension of deportation The Canadian government last week temporarily halted the deportation of these students following protests against their forced repatriation. However, the future course of action and the duration of this relief were not immediately clarified. Scam background The Canada Border Services Agency recently issued deportation notices to approximately 700 Indian students, primarily from Punjab, after discovering that their admission letters to Canadian universities were counterfeit. Also Read | Shark that ate Russian tourist on camera to be mummified, put on display While most of these students arrived in Canada in 2018, the issue of fake letters only came to light five years later when they applied for permanent residency. Government stance, international support This issue garnered attention in the Canadian parliament, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasising the need to identify the culprits rather than penalise the victims. Trudeau expressed support for the victims, stating that they would have an opportunity to present evidence in their defence. He also acknowledged the substantial contributions made by international students to the country. Watch | UK Police seek motive for Nottingham murders, man arrested after police finds three dead × "Victims of this fraud will have an opportunity to demonstrate and present evidence for their case. We recognise the immense contributions that the international students bring to our country," Trudeau had said at the time. Furthermore, India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar previously stated that the Indian government raised the matter with Canadian authorities. It was agreed upon that it would be unfair to deport the students if they were innocent parties in the scam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indian students not to be deported immediately, task force to investigate: Canadian minister

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasised that his administration was focused on "identifying the culprits, not punishing the victims" even as a committee of the House of Commons supported a vote on Wednesday (June 7) in support of former Indian foreign students who may be deported from Canada.

Speaking in Parliament, Trudeau said, “We are deeply aware of cases of international students facing removal orders over fraudulent college acceptance letters. Our focus is in identifying the culprits, not penalising the victims.”

He added, “Victims of fraud will have an opportunity to demonstrate their situation and present evidence to support their case. We remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case.”

The House Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration passed a motion on Wednesday (June 6)&nbsp;evening urging for the deportation of the students to be stayed, while also providing them with a route&nbsp;to permanent residency, reported the Hindustan Times.&nbsp;

The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser embraced a&nbsp;similar lenient approach&nbsp;towards the ex-students, as he tweeted, “Innocent victims will be given every opportunity to have their case considered fairly. Due to the complexity of the situation, we remain committed to working with CBSA (Canadian Border Services Agency) to determine a fair outcome.”

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Les victimes innocentes auront toutes les chances d’avoir leur cas examiné équitablement. En raison de la complexité de la situation, nous restons déterminés à travailler avec l'ASFC pour trouver une solution équitable.
— Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanFraserMP/status/1666526500655452162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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He further said that his department was “actively pursuing a solution” for those affected and was “facing uncertainty due to having been admitted to Canada with fraudulent college admission letters.”

Also watch |&nbsp;Rare case of 'Virgin Birth' | Canada wildfires smoke covers US skies

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<h2>Background</h2>

The&nbsp;students arrived in Canada between 2017 and 2019, and in some instances, in 2020. They started receiving notices from the CBSA in 2021 and last year&nbsp;for a hearing as the agency concluded the letters of offer of admission to a Canadian higher education institution, a requisite&nbsp;for their study permits, were&nbsp;“fake.”

Most of the distressed students were represented by the agent Brijesh Mishra of the Jalandhar-based counselling firm EMSA Education and Migration Services Australia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-least-700-indian-students-facing-deportation-from-canada-launch-protest-601961/amp">Jaishankar responds to 700 Indian students facing risk of deportation from Canada</a>

The ex-students opined that&nbsp;they were being victimised for no reason.&nbsp;In an open letter under the banner of Victim Students released in March, they said, “We are desperate for justice; we are victims of fraud; we have no criminal level but facing a removal order.”

Fraser also tweeted, “Those who have taken advantage of people genuinely hoping to study here will face consequences for their actions.”

Two ex-students have received removal orders, including Lovepreet Singh, originally from Mohali. Many&nbsp;such ex-students are staging an ongoing protest in the Greater Toronto Area or GTA, which they say will continue till their cases are resolved and the order for Lovepreet Singh’s deportation revoked.&nbsp;

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Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasised that his administration was focused on "identifying the culprits, not punishing the victims" even as a committee of the House of Commons supported a vote on Wednesday (June 7) in support of former Indian foreign students who may be deported from Canada.

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasised that his administration was focused on "identifying the culprits, not punishing the victims" even as a committee of the House of Commons supported a vote on Wednesday (June 7) in support of former Indian foreign students who may be deported from Canada. Speaking in Parliament, Trudeau said, “We are deeply aware of cases of international students facing removal orders over fraudulent college acceptance letters. Our focus is in identifying the culprits, not penalising the victims.” He added, “Victims of fraud will have an opportunity to demonstrate their situation and present evidence to support their case. We remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case.” The House Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration passed a motion on Wednesday (June 6) evening urging for the deportation of the students to be stayed, while also providing them with a route to permanent residency, reported the Hindustan Times. The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser embraced a similar lenient approach towards the ex-students, as he tweeted, “Innocent victims will be given every opportunity to have their case considered fairly. Due to the complexity of the situation, we remain committed to working with CBSA (Canadian Border Services Agency) to determine a fair outcome.” Les victimes innocentes auront toutes les chances d’avoir leur cas examiné équitablement. En raison de la complexité de la situation, nous restons déterminés à travailler avec l'ASFC pour trouver une solution équitable. — Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) June 7, 2023 × He further said that his department was “actively pursuing a solution” for those affected and was “facing uncertainty due to having been admitted to Canada with fraudulent college admission letters.” Also watch | Rare case of 'Virgin Birth' | Canada wildfires smoke covers US skies Background The students arrived in Canada between 2017 and 2019, and in some instances, in 2020. They started receiving notices from the CBSA in 2021 and last year for a hearing as the agency concluded the letters of offer of admission to a Canadian higher education institution, a requisite for their study permits, were “fake.” Most of the distressed students were represented by the agent Brijesh Mishra of the Jalandhar-based counselling firm EMSA Education and Migration Services Australia. Also read | Jaishankar responds to 700 Indian students facing risk of deportation from Canada The ex-students opined that they were being victimised for no reason. In an open letter under the banner of Victim Students released in March, they said, “We are desperate for justice; we are victims of fraud; we have no criminal level but facing a removal order.” Fraser also tweeted, “Those who have taken advantage of people genuinely hoping to study here will face consequences for their actions.” Two ex-students have received removal orders, including Lovepreet Singh, originally from Mohali. Many such ex-students are staging an ongoing protest in the Greater Toronto Area or GTA, which they say will continue till their cases are resolved and the order for Lovepreet Singh’s deportation revoked. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Focus on identifying culprits, not penalising victims': Trudeau on Indian students facing deportation

Hundreds of Indian students have been on a sit-in protest in Canada’s Brampton city since last week against possible deportation due to fake admission letters.

At least 700 students, mostly from India’s northwestern Punjab state, fear being kicked out of the country after the Canadian authorities found their "admission offer letters" to educational institutions were fake.

The matter came to light in March when these students applied for permanent residency in Canada.

Since May 29, several Indian students have been on an "indefinite sit-in" protest at Airport Road of Mississauga, outside the head office of the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA).

Responding to the situation, Indian foreign minister Jaishnkar hoped that the Canadian authorities find a solution, arguing that the protesting students were done wrong by a fake travel agent.

<h2>Students tricked by travel agency</h2>

According to a report by the Hindustan Times newspaper, these Indian students arrived in Canada between 2017 and 2019 and a few in 2020.

The students had received notices from the CBSA in 2021 and last year after the agency found the letters of offer of admission to a Canadian higher education institution to be "fake".

These fake documents were issued by a Jalandhar-based travel agent who had charged more than Rs 1.6 million ($19,300) per student, PTI reported.

<h2>Canada deportation fear: Indian students protest after immigration fraud comes to light</h2>

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In the wake of the crisis, Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Dhaliwal urged India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar to address the issue.

"These (700) students are innocent and have been cheated by the clique of fraudsters. I shall be highly grateful if you again look into the matter personally and take up the matter with concerned agencies including the High Commission of Canada and the government of Canada so that these students can be saved from being deported," reads a letter from Dhaliwal to Jaishankar.

On Thursday, Jaishankar responded to the crisis during a press briefing. He said, "Unfair to punish the students who acted in good faith. It is the culpable who should be held accountable."

"Canadians also accept that it would be unfair if a student has done no wrong. If a student has done no wrong then they accept that they have to find a solution. I hope the Canadian system is fair&nbsp;in&nbsp;this&nbsp;regard."

<h2>Canadian ministers show support</h2>

On Tuesday, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown joined the protesting students and extended his support to them.

I have joined Gurpartap Singh Toor (Brampton Councillor) tonight at the international student protest site to show our support for students. International students have been part of Canada’s success story," the mayor said while interacting with the protesting students.

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Joined <a href="https://twitter.com/gurpartapstoor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gurpartapstoor</a> tonight at the international student protest site to show our support for students. International students have been part of Canada’s success story. Any dream is possible in Canada. Students shouldn’t be the victims of fraudulent immigrant consultants… <a href="https://t.co/8o1F2NaAq5">pic.twitter.com/8o1F2NaAq5</a>
— Patrick Brown (@patrickbrownont) <a href="https://twitter.com/patrickbrownont/status/1665906004976869377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Students shouldn’t be the victims of fraudulent immigrant consultants many years after their journey to Canada," Brown added.

Apart from Brown, several Canadian leaders and ministers have extended their support to the Indian students by visiting the protest site.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Hundreds of Indian students have been on a sit-in protest in Canada’s Brampton city since last week against possible deportation due to fake admission letters. At least 700 students, mostly from India’s northwestern Punjab state, fear being kicked out of the country after the Canadian authorities found their "admission offer letters" to educational institutions were fake.

Hundreds of Indian students have been on a sit-in protest in Canada’s Brampton city since last week against possible deportation due to fake admission letters. At least 700 students, mostly from India’s northwestern Punjab state, fear being kicked out of the country after the Canadian authorities found their "admission offer letters" to educational institutions were fake. The matter came to light in March when these students applied for permanent residency in Canada. Since May 29, several Indian students have been on an "indefinite sit-in" protest at Airport Road of Mississauga, outside the head office of the Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA). Responding to the situation, Indian foreign minister Jaishnkar hoped that the Canadian authorities find a solution, arguing that the protesting students were done wrong by a fake travel agent. Students tricked by travel agency According to a report by the Hindustan Times newspaper, these Indian students arrived in Canada between 2017 and 2019 and a few in 2020. The students had received notices from the CBSA in 2021 and last year after the agency found the letters of offer of admission to a Canadian higher education institution to be "fake". These fake documents were issued by a Jalandhar-based travel agent who had charged more than Rs 1.6 million ($19,300) per student, PTI reported. Canada deportation fear: Indian students protest after immigration fraud comes to light In the wake of the crisis, Punjab NRI Affairs Minister Kuldeep Dhaliwal urged India’s External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar to address the issue. "These (700) students are innocent and have been cheated by the clique of fraudsters. I shall be highly grateful if you again look into the matter personally and take up the matter with concerned agencies including the High Commission of Canada and the government of Canada so that these students can be saved from being deported," reads a letter from Dhaliwal to Jaishankar. On Thursday, Jaishankar responded to the crisis during a press briefing. He said, "Unfair to punish the students who acted in good faith. It is the culpable who should be held accountable." "Canadians also accept that it would be unfair if a student has done no wrong. If a student has done no wrong then they accept that they have to find a solution. I hope the Canadian system is fair in this regard." Canadian ministers show support On Tuesday, Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown joined the protesting students and extended his support to them. I have joined Gurpartap Singh Toor (Brampton Councillor) tonight at the international student protest site to show our support for students. International students have been part of Canada’s success story," the mayor said while interacting with the protesting students. Joined @gurpartapstoor tonight at the international student protest site to show our support for students. International students have been part of Canada’s success story. Any dream is possible in Canada. Students shouldn’t be the victims of fraudulent immigrant consultants… pic.twitter.com/8o1F2NaAq5 — Patrick Brown (@patrickbrownont) June 6, 2023 × "Students shouldn’t be the victims of fraudulent immigrant consultants many years after their journey to Canada," Brown added. Apart from Brown, several Canadian leaders and ministers have extended their support to the Indian students by visiting the protest site. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Jaishankar responds to 700 Indian students facing risk of deportation from Canada

Hundreds of Indian students have taken to the streets to protest in Canada in the light of possible deportation after alleged admission to Canadian universities and colleges on “fake offer letters.” The students, mostly from Punjab, claim that travel agents in India have caused this racket.

Canada deportation fear: Indian students protest after immigration fraud comes to light

Several international students in Canada are staging indefinite protests amid a growing threat of their potential removal from the country. The demonstration, which began in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) this week, is expected to continue till the deportation process is stopped.

Their entry into the country was enabled by Indian agents using deceitful documentation.

These students had majorly arrived in the country between the years 2017 and 2019 to pursue higher education. They were informed that their admission offer letters were fake at the time they applied for permanent residency in Canada and their documents were investigated.

Now, at least 700 students are facing removal from the country and have been served with deportation letters by the Canadian Border Security Agency earlier this year.&nbsp;

These students started the protest at a makeshift location on Airport Road in Mississauga and set up a temporary shelter in the region as the protest was launched on Monday, as per a report by Hindustan Times.

The majority of the ones affected were represented by the agent Brijesh Mishra of the Jalandhar-based counselling firm EMSA Education and Migration Services Australia.

The former students said that they were being tormented for no fault of theirs.

This year in the month of March, they wrote an open letter under the banner of Victim Students saying, “We are desperate for justice; we are victims of fraud; we have no criminal level but facing a removal order.”&nbsp;

The agitation was triggered by an expulsion order received by Lovepreet Singh.&nbsp;

Singh, who hails from Mohali in Punjab, has been asked to exit the country by June 13.

Hindustan Times cited one of the impacted students Inder Singh as saying, “We will continue protesting till Lovepreet’s deportation on June 13 is cancelled and a solution is found to our cases.”

The location chosen for the protest is close to a CBSA office and the ex-students plan a large demonstration on Friday in front of that centre.

At least 30 more students are facing expulsion proceedings, though all cases have not yet escalated to the final order being passed. Another 130 or so cases are being probed.

Another student Karamjeet Kaur from Edmonton, hailing from Faridkot in Punjab, was facing expulsion on May 30 but has been granted a temporary stay that her safety would be compromised if she was sent back to India.&nbsp;

The suspension will continue till a judicial review is undertaken in this concern.

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We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country &amp; remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case. 
 
We’re also working closely with institutions to verify acceptance letters are valid at the time of application.
— Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanFraserMP/status/1662071419205738496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Recently, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser took to Twitter and said, “We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country &amp; remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case,” which further generated hope among these students that the government will positively revert to the problems being faced by them.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Several international students in Canada are staging indefinite protests amid a growing threat of their potential removal from the country. The demonstration, which began in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) this week, is expected to continue till the deportation process is stopped.

Several international students in Canada are staging indefinite protests amid a growing threat of their potential removal from the country. The demonstration, which began in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) this week, is expected to continue till the deportation process is stopped. Their entry into the country was enabled by Indian agents using deceitful documentation. These students had majorly arrived in the country between the years 2017 and 2019 to pursue higher education. They were informed that their admission offer letters were fake at the time they applied for permanent residency in Canada and their documents were investigated. Now, at least 700 students are facing removal from the country and have been served with deportation letters by the Canadian Border Security Agency earlier this year. These students started the protest at a makeshift location on Airport Road in Mississauga and set up a temporary shelter in the region as the protest was launched on Monday, as per a report by Hindustan Times. The majority of the ones affected were represented by the agent Brijesh Mishra of the Jalandhar-based counselling firm EMSA Education and Migration Services Australia. The former students said that they were being tormented for no fault of theirs. This year in the month of March, they wrote an open letter under the banner of Victim Students saying, “We are desperate for justice; we are victims of fraud; we have no criminal level but facing a removal order.” The agitation was triggered by an expulsion order received by Lovepreet Singh. Singh, who hails from Mohali in Punjab, has been asked to exit the country by June 13. Hindustan Times cited one of the impacted students Inder Singh as saying, “We will continue protesting till Lovepreet’s deportation on June 13 is cancelled and a solution is found to our cases.” The location chosen for the protest is close to a CBSA office and the ex-students plan a large demonstration on Friday in front of that centre. At least 30 more students are facing expulsion proceedings, though all cases have not yet escalated to the final order being passed. Another 130 or so cases are being probed. Another student Karamjeet Kaur from Edmonton, hailing from Faridkot in Punjab, was facing expulsion on May 30 but has been granted a temporary stay that her safety would be compromised if she was sent back to India. The suspension will continue till a judicial review is undertaken in this concern. We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country & remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case. We’re also working closely with institutions to verify acceptance letters are valid at the time of application. — Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) May 26, 2023 × Recently, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser took to Twitter and said, “We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country & remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case,” which further generated hope among these students that the government will positively revert to the problems being faced by them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Duped students launch indefinite protests in Canada amid looming threat of deportation

Nepal's Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the release of French serial killer Charles Sobhraj, who had been serving a life sentence in the Himalayan republic since 2003 on the charge of murdering two North American tourists — Connie Jo Bronzich and his Canadian companion Laurent Carrière — in 1975.&nbsp;

Sobhraj, 78, was released on health grounds. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court also ordered Sobhraj's deportation within 15 days of his release.&nbsp;

"Keeping him in the prison continuously is not in line with the prisoner's human rights. If there is not any other pending cases against him to keep him in the prison, this court orders his release by today and... the return to his country within 15 days,'' the top court's verdict on Wednesday read, reported news agency AFP.&nbsp;&nbsp;A bench of Justices Sapana Pradhan Malla and Tilak Prasad Shrestha ordered to free 78-year-old Sobhraj from jail.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;N<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-sher-bahadur-deuba-elected-leader-of-nepali-congress-parliamentary-party-545142">epal: PM Sher Bahadur Deuba elected leader of Nepali Congress Parliamentary party</a>

Sobhraj was given nickname&nbsp;‘the Bikini Killer’ after two of his victims were found wearing only bikinis. He befriended mostly Western tourists in Asia&nbsp;and then drugged and killed them. He was also called&nbsp;‘the Serpent’ due to his skill at deception and evasion. 
 
In 2014, he was convicted of killing Laurent Carriere, a Canadian backpacker, and given a second life sentence.&nbsp;A life-term in Nepal means 20 years in jail. 
 
Shobraj had filed a plea claiming that he was put in prison for longer than the recommended period. Besides, there is a legal provision to release prisoners who complete&nbsp;75 per cent jail term and show&nbsp;good character during imprisonment. 
 
Charles Sobhraj was born on April 6, 1944, to an Indian father and a Vietnamese mother. His parents never got married and he was taken in by his mother's new husband who was with the French Army.&nbsp;

In France, Sobhraj faced several prison terms for petty crimes. In the early 1970s, he began travelling the world.&nbsp;

He was implicated in his first murder in 1975 and was eventually linked to murdering more than 20 people.&nbsp;

Sobhraj's modus operandi was to charm and befriend his victims,&nbsp;who were strangled, beaten or burned. &nbsp;He often used the passports of his male victims to travel to his next destination, AFP reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Sobhraj was arrested in India in 1976 after a French tourist died from poisoning at a Delhi hotel. He was first sentenced to 12 years for this murder but ultimately spent 21 years in jail, with a brief break in 1986 when he escaped and was caught again in the state of Goa.&nbsp;

After being released in 1997, Sobhraj went back to Paris but resurfaced in Nepal in 2003, where he was spotted in Kathmandu and arrested. 
 
Charles Sobhraj also known as the 'bikini killer', escaped several high security jails and manipulated the legal system.&nbsp;

(With agency inputs)

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Nepal's Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the release of French serial killer Charles Sobhraj, who had been serving a life sentence in the Himalayan republic since 2003 on the charge of murdering two North American tourists — Connie Jo Bronzich and his Canadian companion Laurent Carrière — in 1975.

Nepal's Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered the release of French serial killer Charles Sobhraj, who had been serving a life sentence in the Himalayan republic since 2003 on the charge of murdering two North American tourists — Connie Jo Bronzich and his Canadian companion Laurent Carrière — in 1975. Sobhraj, 78, was released on health grounds. On Wednesday, the Supreme Court also ordered Sobhraj's deportation within 15 days of his release. "Keeping him in the prison continuously is not in line with the prisoner's human rights. If there is not any other pending cases against him to keep him in the prison, this court orders his release by today and... the return to his country within 15 days,'' the top court's verdict on Wednesday read, reported news agency AFP. A bench of Justices Sapana Pradhan Malla and Tilak Prasad Shrestha ordered to free 78-year-old Sobhraj from jail. ALSO READ | Nepal: PM Sher Bahadur Deuba elected leader of Nepali Congress Parliamentary party Sobhraj was given nickname ‘the Bikini Killer’ after two of his victims were found wearing only bikinis. He befriended mostly Western tourists in Asia and then drugged and killed them. He was also called ‘the Serpent’ due to his skill at deception and evasion. In 2014, he was convicted of killing Laurent Carriere, a Canadian backpacker, and given a second life sentence. A life-term in Nepal means 20 years in jail. Shobraj had filed a plea claiming that he was put in prison for longer than the recommended period. Besides, there is a legal provision to release prisoners who complete 75 per cent jail term and show good character during imprisonment. Charles Sobhraj was born on April 6, 1944, to an Indian father and a Vietnamese mother. His parents never got married and he was taken in by his mother's new husband who was with the French Army. In France, Sobhraj faced several prison terms for petty crimes. In the early 1970s, he began travelling the world. He was implicated in his first murder in 1975 and was eventually linked to murdering more than 20 people. Sobhraj's modus operandi was to charm and befriend his victims, who were strangled, beaten or burned. He often used the passports of his male victims to travel to his next destination, AFP reported on Wednesday. Sobhraj was arrested in India in 1976 after a French tourist died from poisoning at a Delhi hotel. He was first sentenced to 12 years for this murder but ultimately spent 21 years in jail, with a brief break in 1986 when he escaped and was caught again in the state of Goa. After being released in 1997, Sobhraj went back to Paris but resurfaced in Nepal in 2003, where he was spotted in Kathmandu and arrested. Charles Sobhraj also known as the 'bikini killer', escaped several high security jails and manipulated the legal system. (With agency inputs) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nepal’s Supreme Court orders release, deportation of French serial killer Charles Sobhraj

Despite some of them having been granted asylum in other nations, the Tajikistani authorities are apparently gathering up Afghan refugees and forcing them to cross the border back into Afghanistan.&nbsp;

According to reports from Tajikistan's 10,000-strong Afghan refugee community, recent round-ups of Afghan families who have sought asylum in the nation since the Taliban's takeover in August 2021 have resulted in people being picked up off the street and homes being searched.&nbsp;

The Tajikistani government has been urged to halt the forced deportations by the UNHCR, the UN organisation for refugees. It is unclear why they are doing this or what their strategy is; up until a few weeks ago, the Tajikistani government was working with the UNHCR to house and resettle Afghans who were escaping the rule of the Taliban.

While statistics on recent Tajikistan deportations are not yet available, the UN has documented a case of five Afghans being forced to return on August 23. In spite of UNHCR's efforts to stop the deportations, they included "a family consisting of three children and their mother, [and] were deported to Afghanistan through the Panji Poyon border gate in southern Tajikistan," the UN agency said.&nbsp;

According to Afghans in Tajikistan who spoke to the Guardian, the number of people being forcibly deported back into Afghanistan amounts in the hundreds, and the number of forced deportations has been rising over the previous two weeks. They claimed that many Afghan refugees were being sent back without passports or other forms of identification, leaving them on their own and unable to travel to a place of safety.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/infographic-climate-crisis-has-driven-world-on-brink-of-five-disastrous-tipping-points-514540">Infographic: Climate crisis has driven world on brink of five ‘disastrous’ tipping points</a>

No one in Samira's family has dared to leave their apartment in a small village in northern Tajikistan for nearly a week. Her kids haven't gone to school, and they don't feel secure enough to go buy food or necessities for their health.&nbsp;

Samira is terrified of the deportations even though she and her family are also just about to immigrate to Canada. Her biggest concern is for her kids, who have already been through a great deal of trauma. “The refugee life has been hard on children. They deserved a better future,” she said.

(with inputs from agencies)

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Despite some of them having been granted asylum in other nations, the Tajikistani authorities are apparently gathering up Afghan refugees and forcing them to cross the border back into Afghanistan.

Despite some of them having been granted asylum in other nations, the Tajikistani authorities are apparently gathering up Afghan refugees and forcing them to cross the border back into Afghanistan. According to reports from Tajikistan's 10,000-strong Afghan refugee community, recent round-ups of Afghan families who have sought asylum in the nation since the Taliban's takeover in August 2021 have resulted in people being picked up off the street and homes being searched. The Tajikistani government has been urged to halt the forced deportations by the UNHCR, the UN organisation for refugees. It is unclear why they are doing this or what their strategy is; up until a few weeks ago, the Tajikistani government was working with the UNHCR to house and resettle Afghans who were escaping the rule of the Taliban. While statistics on recent Tajikistan deportations are not yet available, the UN has documented a case of five Afghans being forced to return on August 23. In spite of UNHCR's efforts to stop the deportations, they included "a family consisting of three children and their mother, [and] were deported to Afghanistan through the Panji Poyon border gate in southern Tajikistan," the UN agency said. According to Afghans in Tajikistan who spoke to the Guardian, the number of people being forcibly deported back into Afghanistan amounts in the hundreds, and the number of forced deportations has been rising over the previous two weeks. They claimed that many Afghan refugees were being sent back without passports or other forms of identification, leaving them on their own and unable to travel to a place of safety. Also Read: Infographic: Climate crisis has driven world on brink of five ‘disastrous’ tipping points No one in Samira's family has dared to leave their apartment in a small village in northern Tajikistan for nearly a week. Her kids haven't gone to school, and they don't feel secure enough to go buy food or necessities for their health. Samira is terrified of the deportations even though she and her family are also just about to immigrate to Canada. Her biggest concern is for her kids, who have already been through a great deal of trauma. “The refugee life has been hard on children. They deserved a better future,” she said. (with inputs from agencies)

Tajikistan ‘deporting Afghan refugees’ despite being granted asylum in other countries

The UK government would not be "deterred or abashed" by criticism and legal challenges against its Rwanda immigration plan ahead of the first scheduled flight on Tuesday said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The flight to take asylum seekers to Rwanda was due to depart on Tuesday, with the government warning that anyone who avoided it through last-minute legal challenges would be put on a later flight anyway.

Johnson said, “ The objective is to ensure that we make that clear distinction that I think everybody can see is fair and reasonable, between legal immigration to this country by safe and legal routes, that we support and uphold and protect because we all understand the benefits that it brings. And distinguishing that from dangerous and illegal cross Channel migration which we intend to stop."

Britain has struck a 120-million-pound ($148 million) deal with Rwanda to send some migrants, who had arrived illegally by crossing the Channel in small boats from Europe, to live in the landlocked African country.

The government says the deportation strategy is needed to stem the flow of migrants risking their lives in channel crossings and smash the people-smuggling networks.

"What we see now is our policy, the Economic and Migration Partnership with Rwanda, that we have engaged upon, now under a huge amount of attack," Johnson told a meeting of his cabinet ministers on Tuesday.

The plan has horrified political opponents, charities and church leaders who say it is inhumane. The United Nations refugee chief called it "catastrophic," and the entire leadership of the Church of England denounced it as an "immoral policy that shames Britain."

"My message today is that we are not going to in any way deterred or abashed by some of the criticism that has been directed upon this policy - some of it from slightly unexpected quarters - we're going to get on and deliver," Johnson told ministers.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-directs-1-million-recruitments-in-next-15-years-488007">Indian PM Narendra Modi directs government departments for 1 million recruitments in next 1.5 years</a>

&nbsp;UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said, "It's important that we follow through on this policy."&nbsp;

She also spoke about a potential legal fight with the EU over London's plan to override some post-Brexit trade rules.

"I want that negotiated solution, but we do need the EU to be prepared to change the text," Truss said on Tuesday morning. 
&nbsp;

[with inputs from agencies]

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The UK government would not be "deterred or abashed" by criticism and legal challenges against its Rwanda immigration plan ahead of the first scheduled flight on Tuesday said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The UK government would not be "deterred or abashed" by criticism and legal challenges against its Rwanda immigration plan ahead of the first scheduled flight on Tuesday said British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. The flight to take asylum seekers to Rwanda was due to depart on Tuesday, with the government warning that anyone who avoided it through last-minute legal challenges would be put on a later flight anyway. Johnson said, “ The objective is to ensure that we make that clear distinction that I think everybody can see is fair and reasonable, between legal immigration to this country by safe and legal routes, that we support and uphold and protect because we all understand the benefits that it brings. And distinguishing that from dangerous and illegal cross Channel migration which we intend to stop." Britain has struck a 120-million-pound ($148 million) deal with Rwanda to send some migrants, who had arrived illegally by crossing the Channel in small boats from Europe, to live in the landlocked African country. The government says the deportation strategy is needed to stem the flow of migrants risking their lives in channel crossings and smash the people-smuggling networks. "What we see now is our policy, the Economic and Migration Partnership with Rwanda, that we have engaged upon, now under a huge amount of attack," Johnson told a meeting of his cabinet ministers on Tuesday. The plan has horrified political opponents, charities and church leaders who say it is inhumane. The United Nations refugee chief called it "catastrophic," and the entire leadership of the Church of England denounced it as an "immoral policy that shames Britain." "My message today is that we are not going to in any way deterred or abashed by some of the criticism that has been directed upon this policy - some of it from slightly unexpected quarters - we're going to get on and deliver," Johnson told ministers. Also Read: Indian PM Narendra Modi directs government departments for 1 million recruitments in next 1.5 years UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss said, "It's important that we follow through on this policy." She also spoke about a potential legal fight with the EU over London's plan to override some post-Brexit trade rules. "I want that negotiated solution, but we do need the EU to be prepared to change the text," Truss said on Tuesday morning. [with inputs from agencies] WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Boris Johnson says UK government 'not deterred' by criticism of Rwanda deportation policy

The Australian Open started Monday without nine-time champion Novak Djokovic. The 34-year-old flew out of Australia on Sunday night.

Australian Open starts hours after Tennis star Novak Djokovic's deportation

In a big blow to World's no. 1 Tennis player, a 3-Judge bench unanimously rejected Novak Djokovic's appeal against deportation.

3-Judge bench unanimously rejected Novak Djokovic's appeal against deportation

Australia has cancelled Tennis star Novak Djokovic's visa for the second time. The World no. 1 will be moved to immigration detention in all likelihood. Will Djokovic be deported? Or will he defend his Australian Open title? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Double Fault: Australia cancels Djokovic's visa for second time

The sports section in every newspaper or various portals, so far in 2022, has been hogged by only one man, i.e. Novak Djokovic. The world number 1 tennis star has been caught in a huge controversy before the Australian Open -- the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year.&nbsp;

Ahead of the marquee tournament, the nine-time Australian Open champion Djokovic landed in Melbourne, on January 4, with a medical exemption for Covid-19 vaccination. For the unversed, ATP had made it clear that all players need to be fully vaccinated to take part in the Aus Open. The Serbian, however, got an exemption from the Victorian government before travelling Down Under.&nbsp;

On his arrival, Djokovic was taken aback with his exemption being tarnished and his visa getting cancelled. As a result, he was sent to a detention center, i.e. an immigration hotel in Melbourne, for four days before his lawyers managed to free him as Australian Judge Anthony&nbsp;Kelly ordered his release, on January 10, with immediate effect.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-kicking-him-whilst-hes-down-says-andy-murray-on-novak-djokovics-australian-open-saga-444770">Not kicking him whilst he's down, says Andy Murray on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga</a>

Djokovic's Aus Open saga didn't die down there itself. As the Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke comprises discretionary personal powers to revoke anyone's visa on various grounds, he did the same for the Serbian on Friday (January 14). "Today I exercised my power... to cancel the visa held by Mr Novak Djokovic on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so," the Immigration Minister said in a statement.

On the other hand, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison&nbsp;said that the decision followed "careful consideration".

Amid all this, the 34-year-old Djokovic admitted to have breached Covid protocols as he went ahead with an interview to a French-newspaper L'equipe's journalist&nbsp;despite a positive report with regard to the infection in December, 2021.&nbsp;

In addition, Djokovic shifted the blame on his agent for incorrectly filling details in his travel form on arrival Down Under (he also&nbsp;acknowledged that his travel declaration form contained falsehoods about his whereabouts the 14 days preceding his flight to Australia).

Thus, Djokovic has dug his own grave in many ways ahead of the Aus Open. As the entire saga continues to get complicated with each passing day,&nbsp;with the star player set to take his fight against deportation from Australia to a Federal Court on January 15 (Saturday),&nbsp;here's reliving some big controversies surrounding the Serbian:&nbsp;

1)Hitting female line judge

During the 2020 US Open, Djokovic was disqualified after hitting a female line judge in frustration during his fourth-round match versus Spain's Pablo Busta.&nbsp;

The Serbian did so after a fall and dropping a serve to trail 5-6. While it wasn't intentional, Djokovic's fate was sealed under the Grand Slam rules. After the incident, Djokovic had said in a statement, "This whole situation has left me really sad and empty. I checked on the linesperson and the tournament told me that thank God she is feeling OK. I'm extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-open-draw-shaken-up-with-world-no-1-novak-djokovics-visa-cancellation-444677">Australian Open draw shaken up with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's visa cancellation</a>

2) The infamous Covid tour

Amit the pandemic, in 2020, Djokovic has organised an Adrian tour,&nbsp;i.e. a series of exhibition games in Balkans with professional tennis entirely shut down.&nbsp;

However, the tournament was abandoned due to Bulgarian player Grigor Dimitrov testing positive. As a result, Djokovic, his wife and many other players also tested positive.&nbsp;The players were heavily criticised for embaring a nightclub and partying during the pandemic.&nbsp;

3) 'Djokovic is a tool'

During the 2021 Aus Open, Djokovic arrived in Melbourne and again landed himself in controversy by demanding that tennis players should be given private homes along with tennis courts.&nbsp;

To this, Aussie player Nick Krygios tweeted in response by saying, "Djokovic is a tool."

4) Exaggerating injuries and taking medical breaks

Djokovic has been accused of taking unnecessary medical breaks and exaggerating injuries whenever the going gets tough for him during a game. In 2008 US Open, he took two medical timeouts during his five-set thrilling win over Tommy Robredo, upsetting the Spaniard.&nbsp;

On the other hand, Djokovic didn't hesitate in breaking the flow of the game once again during his 2020 French Open quarter-final clash versus Carreon Busta.&nbsp;

Back then, Busta had stated, "Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance."

Thus, Djokovic isn't alien to controversies. He, however, is currently going through his biggest battle off the court and dominating the headlines for all the wrong reasons; acting as a buzzkill for many tennis loyalists worldwide prior to the Aus Open.

The sports section in every newspaper or various portals, so far in 2022, has been hogged by only one man, i.e. Novak Djokovic. The world number 1 tennis star has been caught in a huge controversy before the Australian Open -- the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year.

The sports section in every newspaper or various portals, so far in 2022, has been hogged by only one man, i.e. Novak Djokovic. The world number 1 tennis star has been caught in a huge controversy before the Australian Open -- the first-ever Grand Slam of the calendar year. Ahead of the marquee tournament, the nine-time Australian Open champion Djokovic landed in Melbourne, on January 4, with a medical exemption for Covid-19 vaccination. For the unversed, ATP had made it clear that all players need to be fully vaccinated to take part in the Aus Open. The Serbian, however, got an exemption from the Victorian government before travelling Down Under. On his arrival, Djokovic was taken aback with his exemption being tarnished and his visa getting cancelled. As a result, he was sent to a detention center, i.e. an immigration hotel in Melbourne, for four days before his lawyers managed to free him as Australian Judge Anthony Kelly ordered his release, on January 10, with immediate effect. ALSO READ | Not kicking him whilst he's down, says Andy Murray on Novak Djokovic's Australian Open saga Djokovic's Aus Open saga didn't die down there itself. As the Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke comprises discretionary personal powers to revoke anyone's visa on various grounds, he did the same for the Serbian on Friday (January 14). "Today I exercised my power... to cancel the visa held by Mr Novak Djokovic on health and good order grounds, on the basis that it was in the public interest to do so," the Immigration Minister said in a statement. On the other hand, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that the decision followed "careful consideration". Amid all this, the 34-year-old Djokovic admitted to have breached Covid protocols as he went ahead with an interview to a French-newspaper L'equipe's journalist despite a positive report with regard to the infection in December, 2021. In addition, Djokovic shifted the blame on his agent for incorrectly filling details in his travel form on arrival Down Under (he also acknowledged that his travel declaration form contained falsehoods about his whereabouts the 14 days preceding his flight to Australia). Thus, Djokovic has dug his own grave in many ways ahead of the Aus Open. As the entire saga continues to get complicated with each passing day, with the star player set to take his fight against deportation from Australia to a Federal Court on January 15 (Saturday), here's reliving some big controversies surrounding the Serbian: 1)Hitting female line judge During the 2020 US Open, Djokovic was disqualified after hitting a female line judge in frustration during his fourth-round match versus Spain's Pablo Busta. The Serbian did so after a fall and dropping a serve to trail 5-6. While it wasn't intentional, Djokovic's fate was sealed under the Grand Slam rules. After the incident, Djokovic had said in a statement, "This whole situation has left me really sad and empty. I checked on the linesperson and the tournament told me that thank God she is feeling OK. I'm extremely sorry to have caused her such stress. So unintended. So wrong." ALSO READ | Australian Open draw shaken up with World No. 1 Novak Djokovic's visa cancellation 2) The infamous Covid tour Amit the pandemic, in 2020, Djokovic has organised an Adrian tour, i.e. a series of exhibition games in Balkans with professional tennis entirely shut down. However, the tournament was abandoned due to Bulgarian player Grigor Dimitrov testing positive. As a result, Djokovic, his wife and many other players also tested positive. The players were heavily criticised for embaring a nightclub and partying during the pandemic. 3) 'Djokovic is a tool' During the 2021 Aus Open, Djokovic arrived in Melbourne and again landed himself in controversy by demanding that tennis players should be given private homes along with tennis courts. To this, Aussie player Nick Krygios tweeted in response by saying, "Djokovic is a tool." 4) Exaggerating injuries and taking medical breaks Djokovic has been accused of taking unnecessary medical breaks and exaggerating injuries whenever the going gets tough for him during a game. In 2008 US Open, he took two medical timeouts during his five-set thrilling win over Tommy Robredo, upsetting the Spaniard. On the other hand, Djokovic didn't hesitate in breaking the flow of the game once again during his 2020 French Open quarter-final clash versus Carreon Busta. Back then, Busta had stated, "Every time a match gets complicated he asks for medical assistance." Thus, Djokovic isn't alien to controversies. He, however, is currently going through his biggest battle off the court and dominating the headlines for all the wrong reasons; acting as a buzzkill for many tennis loyalists worldwide prior to the Aus Open.

Novak Djokovic: Serbia's pride and controversy's favourite child

The Australian Immigration Minister Alex Hawke has cancelled Novak Djokovic's visa for a second time on Friday, saying the World No. 1 is unvaccinated for COVID-19 and may pose a risk to the community.

Australia's immigration minister Alex Hawke cancels Djokovic's visa

The Australian government has once again cancelled the visa of Novak Djokovic, saying the vaccine-sceptic tennis superstar may pose a risk to the community.

Australia cancels Novak Djokovic’s visa again, agrees to delay deportation

World number one Novak Djokovic has made heads turn for all the wrong reasons of late. Ahead of the Australian Open, i.e. the first-ever Grand Slam of 2022, the Serbian has been caught in a huge spot of bother as he arrived in Melbourne last week with an exemption for Covid vaccination before the authorities, at the airport, tarnished his exemption, cancelled his visa and sent him to an immigration hotel.

Thus, this caused a huge uproar at a global level. On Monday (January 10), the court decision favoured Djokovic, who was immediately released from detention. His lawyers had pointed out that the Serb couldn't have taken the jab as he had tested positive for Covid-19 in December, 2021. At present, the 34-year-old is now practising for the Aus Open, though there is no clarity on his participation, however, the immigration minister can overrule the court's decision order his Serb's deportation; banning him from Australia for three years.

It is interesting to note that Djokovic had got the exemption, for vaccination, from the Victorian government; who has remained quiet since the unfortunate turn of events. Thus, former Aussie spin wizard Shane Warne -- hailing from Victoria -- has joined the bandwagon and reacted to Djokovic's controversy.

"Are these facts true? As I've read so many different reports in this messy embarrassing saga. Novak tested positive to covid Dec 16 &amp; attended a public event on the 17th that inc (included) children. Said he hadn't travelled in 14 days before arriving in Oz but travelled Jan 2 to Spain?," tweeted Warne.

"And did Novak have a medical exemption ? If so - has the person who gave it to him been identified ? What was that exemption? Just trying to get the facts as I'm embarrassed as a Victorian at this situation. Vic Govt are quiet ? Can someone explain to us in plain Eng please," Warne's second tweet read.

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Are these facts true? As I’ve read so many different reports in this messy embarrassing saga. 
Novak tested positive to covid Dec 16 &amp; attended a public event on the 17th that inc children. 
Said he hadn’t travelled in 14 days before arriving in Oz but travelled Jan 2 to Spain ?
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1480763959191900160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/situation-truly-damaging-melbourne-based-journalist-on-djokovics-aus-open-saga-post-court-hearing-443708">Situation truly damaging: Melbourne-based journalist on Djokovic's Aus Open saga post court hearing</a>

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And did Novak have a medical exemption ? If so - has the person who gave it to him been identified ? What was that exemption ? Just trying to get the facts as I’m embarrassed as a Victorian at this situation. Vic Govt are quiet ? Can someone explain to us in plain Eng please 👍
— Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne/status/1480766569194000386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-novak-djokovic-lie-in-australian-open-entry-form-tennis-stars-lands-in-trouble-yet-again-443866">Did Novak Djokovic lie in Australian Open entry form? Tennis stars lands in trouble yet again</a>

The curious case of Djokovic is far from over as of now. It depends on the federal government if they wish to push the case further and deport the Serbian tennis superstar or allow him to participate in the forthcoming Aus Open; to commence on January 17.&nbsp;

World number one Novak Djokovic has made heads turn for all the wrong reasons of late. Ahead of the Australian Open, i.e. the first-ever Grand Slam of 2022, the Serbian has been caught in a huge spot of bother as he arrived in Melbourne last week with an exemption for Covid vaccination before the authorities, at the airport, tarnished his exemption, cancelled his visa and sent him to an immigration hotel.

World number one Novak Djokovic has made heads turn for all the wrong reasons of late. Ahead of the Australian Open, i.e. the first-ever Grand Slam of 2022, the Serbian has been caught in a huge spot of bother as he arrived in Melbourne last week with an exemption for Covid vaccination before the authorities, at the airport, tarnished his exemption, cancelled his visa and sent him to an immigration hotel. Thus, this caused a huge uproar at a global level. On Monday (January 10), the court decision favoured Djokovic, who was immediately released from detention. His lawyers had pointed out that the Serb couldn't have taken the jab as he had tested positive for Covid-19 in December, 2021. At present, the 34-year-old is now practising for the Aus Open, though there is no clarity on his participation, however, the immigration minister can overrule the court's decision order his Serb's deportation; banning him from Australia for three years. It is interesting to note that Djokovic had got the exemption, for vaccination, from the Victorian government; who has remained quiet since the unfortunate turn of events. Thus, former Aussie spin wizard Shane Warne -- hailing from Victoria -- has joined the bandwagon and reacted to Djokovic's controversy. "Are these facts true? As I've read so many different reports in this messy embarrassing saga. Novak tested positive to covid Dec 16 & attended a public event on the 17th that inc (included) children. Said he hadn't travelled in 14 days before arriving in Oz but travelled Jan 2 to Spain?," tweeted Warne. "And did Novak have a medical exemption ? If so - has the person who gave it to him been identified ? What was that exemption? Just trying to get the facts as I'm embarrassed as a Victorian at this situation. Vic Govt are quiet ? Can someone explain to us in plain Eng please," Warne's second tweet read. Are these facts true? As I’ve read so many different reports in this messy embarrassing saga. Novak tested positive to covid Dec 16 & attended a public event on the 17th that inc children. Said he hadn’t travelled in 14 days before arriving in Oz but travelled Jan 2 to Spain ? — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) January 11, 2022 × ALSO READ | Situation truly damaging: Melbourne-based journalist on Djokovic's Aus Open saga post court hearing And did Novak have a medical exemption ? If so - has the person who gave it to him been identified ? What was that exemption ? Just trying to get the facts as I’m embarrassed as a Victorian at this situation. Vic Govt are quiet ? Can someone explain to us in plain Eng please 👍 — Shane Warne (@ShaneWarne) January 11, 2022 × ALSO READ | Did Novak Djokovic lie in Australian Open entry form? Tennis stars lands in trouble yet again The curious case of Djokovic is far from over as of now. It depends on the federal government if they wish to push the case further and deport the Serbian tennis superstar or allow him to participate in the forthcoming Aus Open; to commence on January 17.

Embarrassed as a Victorian: Shane Warne baffled as he reacts to Novak Djokovic's Aus Open saga

Novak Djokovic was granted the permission to be released immediately from detention by the judge on Monday (January 10). The Serbian won a court battle against the cancellation of his Australian visa and the judge overturned his deportation orders by saying that the government's decision was 'unreasonable' and also ordered the federal government to pay all the legal costs for Djokovic's stay in Melbourne.

The top-ranked tennis star left his immigration hotel immediately after the court hearing. For the unversed, he was detained after his visa was cancelled on arrival in Melbourne for the Australian Open 2022. He had an exemption from the Victorian government for Covid vaccination, however, it was deemed unsatisfactory after which he was in detention.

It is still unclear whether Djokovic will participate in the year's first-ever Grand Slam, i.e. the Aus Open, and if the government will continue legal proceedings against him. Australia's immigration minister and govt lawyer is now considering re-cancelling Djokovic's visa under the country's immigration laws, which gives him immense power to cancel visas under any condition. If this happens, Djokovic will be banned from entering the country for three long years.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/biggest-victory-in-his-career-bigger-than-all-grand-slams-says-djokovics-family-after-courts-decision-443687">Biggest victory in his career, bigger than all Grand Slams, says Djokovic's family after court's decision</a>

Sheding light on the whole matter post the court hearing, Scott Spits -- the sports reporter from Australia's Daily The Age -- told WION, "The situation is truly damaging. The Australian govt doesn't look good whoever is watching story from abroad. &nbsp;There might&nbsp;be another steps as being mentioned in the government report to reinforce the visa cancellation. But the situation is really very damaging for the Australian government."

He added, "It will come down to how strong the federal government&nbsp;believes they should maintain the decision of cancelling his visa.&nbsp;Djokovic would have gone with some public support given what he's really gone through. Look this is election due this year so&nbsp;they need to work out how strongly they want to&nbsp;push the case."

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"The judge today overturned the government decision essentially what was perhaps considered technicality. That's why immigration minister might take the additional step to try and&nbsp;cancel the visa again. It is possible," he signed off.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pleased-and-grateful-novak-djokovic-tweets-after-his-visa-cancellation-is-revoked-ahead-of-australian-open-443666">'Pleased and grateful': Novak Djokovic tweets after his visa cancellation is revoked ahead of Australian Open</a>

Djokovic has, meanwhile, commenced his training for the forthcoming Aus Open as soon as he was released from the immigration hotel. However, there is no confirmation whether he will be able to participate and bid for his 21st Grand Slam title. As of now, Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are all tied at 20 grand slam titles each.

Novak Djokovic was granted the permission to be released immediately from detention by the judge on Monday (January 10). The Serbian won a court battle against the cancellation of his Australian visa and the judge overturned his deportation orders by saying that the government's decision was 'unreasonable' and also ordered the federal government to pay all the legal costs for Djokovic's stay in Melbourne.

Novak Djokovic was granted the permission to be released immediately from detention by the judge on Monday (January 10). The Serbian won a court battle against the cancellation of his Australian visa and the judge overturned his deportation orders by saying that the government's decision was 'unreasonable' and also ordered the federal government to pay all the legal costs for Djokovic's stay in Melbourne. The top-ranked tennis star left his immigration hotel immediately after the court hearing. For the unversed, he was detained after his visa was cancelled on arrival in Melbourne for the Australian Open 2022. He had an exemption from the Victorian government for Covid vaccination, however, it was deemed unsatisfactory after which he was in detention. It is still unclear whether Djokovic will participate in the year's first-ever Grand Slam, i.e. the Aus Open, and if the government will continue legal proceedings against him. Australia's immigration minister and govt lawyer is now considering re-cancelling Djokovic's visa under the country's immigration laws, which gives him immense power to cancel visas under any condition. If this happens, Djokovic will be banned from entering the country for three long years. ALSO READ | Biggest victory in his career, bigger than all Grand Slams, says Djokovic's family after court's decision Sheding light on the whole matter post the court hearing, Scott Spits -- the sports reporter from Australia's Daily The Age -- told WION, "The situation is truly damaging. The Australian govt doesn't look good whoever is watching story from abroad. There might be another steps as being mentioned in the government report to reinforce the visa cancellation. But the situation is really very damaging for the Australian government." He added, "It will come down to how strong the federal government believes they should maintain the decision of cancelling his visa. Djokovic would have gone with some public support given what he's really gone through. Look this is election due this year so they need to work out how strongly they want to push the case." × "The judge today overturned the government decision essentially what was perhaps considered technicality. That's why immigration minister might take the additional step to try and cancel the visa again. It is possible," he signed off. ALSO READ | 'Pleased and grateful': Novak Djokovic tweets after his visa cancellation is revoked ahead of Australian Open Djokovic has, meanwhile, commenced his training for the forthcoming Aus Open as soon as he was released from the immigration hotel. However, there is no confirmation whether he will be able to participate and bid for his 21st Grand Slam title. As of now, Djokovic, Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal are all tied at 20 grand slam titles each.

Situation truly damaging: Melbourne-based journalist on Djokovic's Aus Open saga post court hearing

On Monday (January 10), the World number 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic breathed a huge sigh of relief when the court ordered his immediate release from the immigration centre ahead of the Australian Open, which commences on January 17.&nbsp;

Ahead of the calendar year's first Grand Slam, Djokovic got involved in a huge controversy when he announced that he is heading for Melbourne with an exemption received from the Victorian government, with regard to Covid vaccination, to play the Aus Open. The Serbian's stance on Covid vaccination remains known to all, however, his exemption was deemed unsatisfactory by the authorities on his arrival in Australia, on Wednesday (January 5), which put him in a detention centre. Thus, the court's decision was due to come on Monday and it has favoured the tennis superstar to remain&nbsp;in the country and bid for his 21st Grand Slam title overall.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-government-ready-to-re-cancel-novak-djokovics-visa-after-court-orders-tennis-stars-release-443575">Australian government ready to re-cancel Novak Djokovic's visa after court orders tennis star's release</a>

On hearing the court's decision, Djokovic's competitor and world number 6 Rafael Nadal also reacted to the new developments.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Whether or not I agree with Djokovic on some things, justice has spoken and has said that he has the right to participate in the Australian Open and I think it is the fairest decision to do so, if it has been resolved that way. I wish him the best of luck," Nadal told Spanish radio Onda Cero on Monday.

He added, "On a personal level, I`d much rather he didn`t play," Nadal said, laughing along with interviewer. "It`s sports, many interests move around it, on a general level, at an economic, advertising level. Everything is much better when the best can be playing," Nadal said, before defending the Covid vaccination once again. He concluded by saying, "The most important institutions in the world say that the vaccine is the way to stop this pandemic and the disaster that we have been living for the last 20 months."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pranksters-stream-music-and-porn-at-novak-djokovics-virtual-court-hearing-443569">Pranksters stream music and porn at Novak Djokovic's virtual court hearing</a>

The tennis fans would hope for the focus to shift entirely on the game ahead of the Australian Open, from next week. Many believe it will be a showdown between Nadal and Djokovic as the duo will fight hard to become the first male tennis player to get to 21 Grand Slam titles. At present, Roger Federer, Nadal and Djokovic are all tied at 20 GS titles each.

On Monday (January 10), the World number 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic breathed a huge sigh of relief when the court ordered his immediate release from the immigration centre ahead of the Australian Open, which commences on January 17.

On Monday (January 10), the World number 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic breathed a huge sigh of relief when the court ordered his immediate release from the immigration centre ahead of the Australian Open, which commences on January 17. Ahead of the calendar year's first Grand Slam, Djokovic got involved in a huge controversy when he announced that he is heading for Melbourne with an exemption received from the Victorian government, with regard to Covid vaccination, to play the Aus Open. The Serbian's stance on Covid vaccination remains known to all, however, his exemption was deemed unsatisfactory by the authorities on his arrival in Australia, on Wednesday (January 5), which put him in a detention centre. Thus, the court's decision was due to come on Monday and it has favoured the tennis superstar to remain in the country and bid for his 21st Grand Slam title overall. ALSO READ | Australian government ready to re-cancel Novak Djokovic's visa after court orders tennis star's release On hearing the court's decision, Djokovic's competitor and world number 6 Rafael Nadal also reacted to the new developments. "Whether or not I agree with Djokovic on some things, justice has spoken and has said that he has the right to participate in the Australian Open and I think it is the fairest decision to do so, if it has been resolved that way. I wish him the best of luck," Nadal told Spanish radio Onda Cero on Monday. He added, "On a personal level, I`d much rather he didn`t play," Nadal said, laughing along with interviewer. "It`s sports, many interests move around it, on a general level, at an economic, advertising level. Everything is much better when the best can be playing," Nadal said, before defending the Covid vaccination once again. He concluded by saying, "The most important institutions in the world say that the vaccine is the way to stop this pandemic and the disaster that we have been living for the last 20 months." ALSO READ | Pranksters stream music and porn at Novak Djokovic's virtual court hearing The tennis fans would hope for the focus to shift entirely on the game ahead of the Australian Open, from next week. Many believe it will be a showdown between Nadal and Djokovic as the duo will fight hard to become the first male tennis player to get to 21 Grand Slam titles. At present, Roger Federer, Nadal and Djokovic are all tied at 20 GS titles each.

Rafael Nadal reacts as Australian judge orders Djokovic's release from detention ahead of Aus Open

Beijing has pressured foreign governments to deport hundreds of Taiwan nationals to China, a new report found, in what human rights activists describe as a "hunt for Taiwanese".

More than 600 Taiwanese were extradited from various countries to China between 2016 and 2019 in an effort to "undermine Taiwanese sovereignty", rights group Safeguard Defenders said in a report Tuesday.

China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as its territory, to be retaken one day by force if necessary, and has stepped up efforts in recent years to diplomatically isolate it.

China and Taiwan agreed in 2009 that police from both sides would return overseas suspects to their respective territories.&nbsp;

But Beijing began to increasingly ignore this agreement after the election of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen in 2016, according to the NGO's report.

As Tsai has tried to assert the island's distinct identity, China has more aggressively professed its claim over Taiwan.

Safeguard Defenders said Beijing had pressured governments -- including the Philippines and Cambodia -- to extradite hundreds of Taiwanese mostly accused of telecoms fraud to China, despite efforts by the Taiwan government and the UN Human Rights Council to prevent the forced transfers.

Those extradited to China faced "arbitrary detention, torture, enforced disappearances, and forced televised confessions", Safeguard Defenders said.

Spain accounted for the greatest number of known forced transfer cases -- more than 200 -- despite being bound by the European Convention on Human Rights, according to the report.

A Spanish court ruled in 2017 that a group of 121 Chinese and Taiwanese fraud suspects could be extradited to China, pointing to Beijing's widely followed "One-China policy" -- in which Taiwan is diplomatically considered a part of China.

The Spanish government has shown a "clear disregard" for its human rights commitments and a "lack of understanding of the severity of human rights abuses in China", Safeguard Defenders said.

In a contrasting European ruling, last year the Czech Supreme Court rejected China's extradition request for eight Taiwan nationals, citing the risk of torture and Beijing's poor rights record.&nbsp;

In response to the report, Taiwan's government said Wednesday that China "does not have jurisdiction" over Taiwanese citizens implicated in criminal cases abroad, who it said should be returned to Taiwan to face trial.

The Mainland Affairs Council, Taiwan's top China policy-making body, said Beijing aims to "show its sovereignty over Taiwan" by pushing for the deportations.

"We again urge the Chinese side that crime-fighting should not involve politics and we hope law enforcement units on both sides can continue to cooperate on existing basis to effectively fight crimes and protest public welfare," it said in a statement.

Meanwhile, China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Wednesday dismissed the report as "pure nonsense."

Madrid-based Safeguard Defenders is an organisation that monitors and supports human rights activists in Asia.&nbsp; 
Co-founder Peter Dahlin was deported from China in 2016 after being detained for 23 days and forced to make a televised confession.

Beijing has pressured foreign governments to deport hundreds of Taiwan nationals to China, a new report found, in what human rights activists describe as a "hunt for Taiwanese".

Beijing has pressured foreign governments to deport hundreds of Taiwan nationals to China, a new report found, in what human rights activists describe as a "hunt for Taiwanese". More than 600 Taiwanese were extradited from various countries to China between 2016 and 2019 in an effort to "undermine Taiwanese sovereignty", rights group Safeguard Defenders said in a report Tuesday. China claims self-ruled democratic Taiwan as its territory, to be retaken one day by force if necessary, and has stepped up efforts in recent years to diplomatically isolate it. China and Taiwan agreed in 2009 that police from both sides would return overseas suspects to their respective territories. But Beijing began to increasingly ignore this agreement after the election of Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen in 2016, according to the NGO's report. As Tsai has tried to assert the island's distinct identity, China has more aggressively professed its claim over Taiwan. Safeguard Defenders said Beijing had pressured governments -- including the Philippines and Cambodia -- to extradite hundreds of Taiwanese mostly accused of telecoms fraud to China, despite efforts by the Taiwan government and the UN Human Rights Council to prevent the forced transfers. Those extradited to China faced "arbitrary detention, torture, enforced disappearances, and forced televised confessions", Safeguard Defenders said. Spain accounted for the greatest number of known forced transfer cases -- more than 200 -- despite being bound by the European Convention on Human Rights, according to the report. A Spanish court ruled in 2017 that a group of 121 Chinese and Taiwanese fraud suspects could be extradited to China, pointing to Beijing's widely followed "One-China policy" -- in which Taiwan is diplomatically considered a part of China. The Spanish government has shown a "clear disregard" for its human rights commitments and a "lack of understanding of the severity of human rights abuses in China", Safeguard Defenders said. In a contrasting European ruling, last year the Czech Supreme Court rejected China's extradition request for eight Taiwan nationals, citing the risk of torture and Beijing's poor rights record. In response to the report, Taiwan's government said Wednesday that China "does not have jurisdiction" over Taiwanese citizens implicated in criminal cases abroad, who it said should be returned to Taiwan to face trial. The Mainland Affairs Council, Taiwan's top China policy-making body, said Beijing aims to "show its sovereignty over Taiwan" by pushing for the deportations. "We again urge the Chinese side that crime-fighting should not involve politics and we hope law enforcement units on both sides can continue to cooperate on existing basis to effectively fight crimes and protest public welfare," it said in a statement. Meanwhile, China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin on Wednesday dismissed the report as "pure nonsense." Madrid-based Safeguard Defenders is an organisation that monitors and supports human rights activists in Asia. Co-founder Peter Dahlin was deported from China in 2016 after being detained for 23 days and forced to make a televised confession.

China 'hunting' Taiwanese abroad through deportation: rights group

The United States on Sunday (local time) started flying Haitian migrants back to their country. Three flights, each carrying 145 people landed at Haiti's Port-au-Prince airport.

Thousands of migrants have gathered under an international bridge in Texas. The Del Rio bridge connects Texas and Mexico's Ciudad Acuña

Title 42, an emergency public health order empowers US authorities to expel migrants before they can seek asylum in the US.

In recent days, more than 15,000 Haitians crossed into the country from Mexico. They are stranded at Del Rio bridge as they haven't been allowed to move ahead into US.

Deported migrants were angry and were quoted by AFP to have been fearful of returning back to life in their home country many parts of which are ravaged by gang violence.

"(US President Joe) Biden knows well what is happening, but he doesn't care," said one woman, tears streaming down her face as she described her time at a US migrant detention facility in Texas.&nbsp;

"He treated us, us and our children, worse than animals," she said.

According to flight manifests seen by AFP, nearly half of the 327 Haitians deported by the United States on Sunday are under five years old and were born abroad.&nbsp;

Before arriving at the US-Mexico border, several of the Haitians had emigrated to Chile and Brazil in 2016 and 2017.&nbsp;

"In Santiago, I had a small business, my husband worked. We were able to save money -- that's what allowed us to make the whole trip to the United States," said a 28-year-old woman, who identified herself only as Jeanne.&nbsp;

The family thought they would benefit from the extension of the Temporary Protected Status policy in the United States, which allowed Haitians to temporarily stay in the country regardless of their immigration status.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The United States on Sunday (local time) started flying Haitian migrants back to their country. Three flights, each carrying 145 people landed at Haiti's Port-au-Prince airport.

The United States on Sunday (local time) started flying Haitian migrants back to their country. Three flights, each carrying 145 people landed at Haiti's Port-au-Prince airport. Thousands of migrants have gathered under an international bridge in Texas. The Del Rio bridge connects Texas and Mexico's Ciudad Acuña Title 42, an emergency public health order empowers US authorities to expel migrants before they can seek asylum in the US. In recent days, more than 15,000 Haitians crossed into the country from Mexico. They are stranded at Del Rio bridge as they haven't been allowed to move ahead into US. Deported migrants were angry and were quoted by AFP to have been fearful of returning back to life in their home country many parts of which are ravaged by gang violence. "(US President Joe) Biden knows well what is happening, but he doesn't care," said one woman, tears streaming down her face as she described her time at a US migrant detention facility in Texas. "He treated us, us and our children, worse than animals," she said. According to flight manifests seen by AFP, nearly half of the 327 Haitians deported by the United States on Sunday are under five years old and were born abroad. Before arriving at the US-Mexico border, several of the Haitians had emigrated to Chile and Brazil in 2016 and 2017. "In Santiago, I had a small business, my husband worked. We were able to save money -- that's what allowed us to make the whole trip to the United States," said a 28-year-old woman, who identified herself only as Jeanne. The family thought they would benefit from the extension of the Temporary Protected Status policy in the United States, which allowed Haitians to temporarily stay in the country regardless of their immigration status. (With inputs from agencies)

US starts deporting Haitian migrants from Texas

The United States on Friday resumed fast-track deportation flights for migrant families that recently arrived at the US-Mexico border, amid a sharp increase in the number of migrants at the southern border. 
 
The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement the flights would transport Guatemalan, Honduran and Salvadoran migrant families, who could not be immediately expelled under a coronavirus-related public health policy and did not have a legal basis to stay in the country. 
 
"We are&nbsp;making clear that those who do not qualify to remain in the United States will be promptly removed," the statement said. 
 
Migrant crossings typically taper off in the hot summer months, but arrests at the southern border rose in June to the highest level since April 2000. The tally in July is expected to be similar or even higher, according to two border patrol officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity. 
 
Immigration, and particularly the arrival of asylum seekers at the US&nbsp;southern border, has been a hot-button issue for decades. Multiple attempts to reform US&nbsp;laws and create a pathway to citizenship for the millions of immigrants living in the country illegally have failed in Congress.

The United States on Friday resumed fast-track deportation flights for migrant families that recently arrived at the US-Mexico border, amid a sharp increase in the number of migrants at the southern border.

The United States on Friday resumed fast-track deportation flights for migrant families that recently arrived at the US-Mexico border, amid a sharp increase in the number of migrants at the southern border. The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement the flights would transport Guatemalan, Honduran and Salvadoran migrant families, who could not be immediately expelled under a coronavirus-related public health policy and did not have a legal basis to stay in the country. "We are making clear that those who do not qualify to remain in the United States will be promptly removed," the statement said. Migrant crossings typically taper off in the hot summer months, but arrests at the southern border rose in June to the highest level since April 2000. The tally in July is expected to be similar or even higher, according to two border patrol officials who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Immigration, and particularly the arrival of asylum seekers at the US southern border, has been a hot-button issue for decades. Multiple attempts to reform US laws and create a pathway to citizenship for the millions of immigrants living in the country illegally have failed in Congress.

US resumes fast-track deportation flights of Central American migrant families

Malaysia's government faced mounting criticism from opposition MPs and rights groups on Wednesday over its decision to deport over 1,000 Myanmar nationals in defiance of a court order. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The migrants, whom activists say include vulnerable asylum seekers, departed on Tuesday on Myanmar navy ships from a Malaysian military base back to their homeland, just weeks after a coup. &nbsp;

Rights groups had fiercely criticised the plan, and hours before the deportation, the Kuala Lumpur High Court ordered it be temporarily halted to allow a legal challenge from activists. &nbsp;&nbsp;

But officials pushed ahead regardless, repatriating 1,086 migrants and offering no explanation as to why the court's instructions were ignored. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In a joint statement, four opposition lawmakers condemned the 'inhumane' deportation and suggested government officials could be held in contempt for ignoring the legal ruling. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"This act... is a clear display that the Malaysian government does not respect the ongoing court process and has put Malaysia in a bad light on the human rights front," they said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Amnesty International, one of the groups that challenged the deportation, said the government 'owes an explanation to the people of Malaysia as to why they chose to defy the court order'. &nbsp;

"These dangerous deportations have not been properly scrutinised and put individuals at grave risk," said Katrina Jorene Maliamauv, executive director of Amnesty's Malaysia office. &nbsp;

More than 100 migrants originally to be deported are believed to have been left behind, with officials offering no explanation as to why. On Wednesday, the high court ruled those remaining should be not sent back as NGOs challenge the repatriation. &nbsp;

Malaysian immigration officials insisted there were no members of the persecuted Rohingya minority, who are not recognised as citizens in Myanmar or asylum seekers among those repatriated. &nbsp;&nbsp;

But rights groups have raised doubts over authorities' claims there were no asylum seekers among the deportees. &nbsp;

Authorities have since 2019 blocked the UN refugee agency from immigration detention centres, meaning they cannot assess which migrants have genuine asylum claims and should be allowed to remain in Malaysia. &nbsp;

It is rare for NGOs to challenge repatriations but in the latest case, they were particularly concerned about the worsening human rights situation in Myanmar since the coup.&nbsp;

Malaysia's government faced mounting criticism from opposition MPs and rights groups on Wednesday over its decision to deport over 1,000 Myanmar nationals in defiance of a court order.

Malaysia's government faced mounting criticism from opposition MPs and rights groups on Wednesday over its decision to deport over 1,000 Myanmar nationals in defiance of a court order. The migrants, whom activists say include vulnerable asylum seekers, departed on Tuesday on Myanmar navy ships from a Malaysian military base back to their homeland, just weeks after a coup. Rights groups had fiercely criticised the plan, and hours before the deportation, the Kuala Lumpur High Court ordered it be temporarily halted to allow a legal challenge from activists. But officials pushed ahead regardless, repatriating 1,086 migrants and offering no explanation as to why the court's instructions were ignored. In a joint statement, four opposition lawmakers condemned the 'inhumane' deportation and suggested government officials could be held in contempt for ignoring the legal ruling. "This act... is a clear display that the Malaysian government does not respect the ongoing court process and has put Malaysia in a bad light on the human rights front," they said. Amnesty International, one of the groups that challenged the deportation, said the government 'owes an explanation to the people of Malaysia as to why they chose to defy the court order'. "These dangerous deportations have not been properly scrutinised and put individuals at grave risk," said Katrina Jorene Maliamauv, executive director of Amnesty's Malaysia office. More than 100 migrants originally to be deported are believed to have been left behind, with officials offering no explanation as to why. On Wednesday, the high court ruled those remaining should be not sent back as NGOs challenge the repatriation. Malaysian immigration officials insisted there were no members of the persecuted Rohingya minority, who are not recognised as citizens in Myanmar or asylum seekers among those repatriated. But rights groups have raised doubts over authorities' claims there were no asylum seekers among the deportees. Authorities have since 2019 blocked the UN refugee agency from immigration detention centres, meaning they cannot assess which migrants have genuine asylum claims and should be allowed to remain in Malaysia. It is rare for NGOs to challenge repatriations but in the latest case, they were particularly concerned about the worsening human rights situation in Myanmar since the coup.

Malaysia under fire after controversial Myanmar nationals' deportation

More than 62,000 people have signed an online petition against the deportation of an elderly Sikh woman to India who has been living in the United Kingdom for 10 years.&nbsp;

Gurmit Kaur Sahota, 75, in 2009 arrived in Smethwick in the West Midlands as an undocumented migrant and has been living there since then.

According to the UK Visas and Immigration rules, Sahota has to return back to India even though she did not have a family there.&nbsp;

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A local Sikh community in Smethwick has adopted the septuagenarian.

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"Gurmit applied to stay but has been refused even though she has no family to return to in Punjab, India," said the online petition on Change.Org to the UK Home Office and UK Parliament.

"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."

Calling her an "asset", the petition also said that the elderly woman also distributed fruits to Black Lives Matter protesters to support their cause.&nbsp;

Speaking through a translator, Sahota told Birmingham Live that if she returned back to her home country, she would have nowhere to reside as she has no family there.

"I fear the loneliness and the impact on my mental health going back there all alone. Being here in Smethwick is my true home, it's where I work to help the community, it's where I give back, it's where I know and love the people who have become my family. The people in the temple here have become my true family," Sahota said.&nbsp;

More than 62,000 people have signed an online petition against the deportation of an elderly Sikh woman to India who has been living in the United Kingdom for 10 years.

More than 62,000 people have signed an online petition against the deportation of an elderly Sikh woman to India who has been living in the United Kingdom for 10 years. Gurmit Kaur Sahota, 75, in 2009 arrived in Smethwick in the West Midlands as an undocumented migrant and has been living there since then. According to the UK Visas and Immigration rules, Sahota has to return back to India even though she did not have a family there. Also read | After United Kingdom, Sweden bans Huawei from upcoming 5G networks A local Sikh community in Smethwick has adopted the septuagenarian. Also read | United Kingdom mulling a new law to give its spies licence to kill "Gurmit applied to stay but has been refused even though she has no family to return to in Punjab, India," said the online petition on Change.Org to the UK Home Office and UK Parliament. "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." Calling her an "asset", the petition also said that the elderly woman also distributed fruits to Black Lives Matter protesters to support their cause. Speaking through a translator, Sahota told Birmingham Live that if she returned back to her home country, she would have nowhere to reside as she has no family there. "I fear the loneliness and the impact on my mental health going back there all alone. Being here in Smethwick is my true home, it's where I work to help the community, it's where I give back, it's where I know and love the people who have become my family. The people in the temple here have become my true family," Sahota said.

More than 60,000 sign petition against deportation of elderly Sikh woman

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