Indian Immigrants in the UK: Challenges and Concerns

Description

Page: 442-444

Anindita Chatterjee and Santoshi Halder (Department of Education, University of Calcutta, West Bengal)

The present study offers a historical background of Indian immigration to the UK. Along with that, it presents multifarious challenges that Indian immigrants encounter in the UK. For example, Indian immigrants grapple with cultural tension while acculturating to a different value system in the UK. Qualified doctors and nurses often encounter discriminatory practices based on ethnicity and colour. To start up a business, Indian entrepreneurs also find difficulty in getting loan from bank and navigating through the rules and laws of a foreign land. Finding emerges that, while balancing study, work and family obligations, they get little time for leisure and social life. On the other hand, illegal immigrants’ precarious immigration status makes them more vulnerable to exploitation. Finally, the study underscores how both India and UK governments should come forward to deal with the issue of illegal migrants and safeguard the interests of migrants coming through legal pathways. This will not only improve bilateral relation between the countries, but will also help to promote safe and responsible migration.