UK Government Moves to Amend Law for Deporting Convicted Criminals
The UK government has initiated changes to the Immigration Act 1971 to facilitate the deportation of serious criminals, including Shabir Ahmed, a convicted grooming gang leader. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced the amendment in Parliament, stating it would allow for the removal of protections that currently prevent deportation for some Commonwealth citizens. Ahmed, who was jailed in 2012 for multiple sexual offences, was released after serving his sentence and is currently living under monitored conditions. The proposed amendment is part of a broader Immigration and Asylum Bill aimed at reforming the asylum system. While the amendment has garnered cross-party support, challenges remain, including Pakistan's refusal to accept Ahmed's return. The government is also pursuing the deportation of two other convicted gang members, Qari Abdul Rauf and Adil Khan, who have contested their deportation rights.
Published 1 day ago • 14 Jul 2026, 03:50 PM IST