New Delhi: The United Kingdom (UK) is planning to bar entry to people who incite hatred and violence in the name of religion, according to media reports. The move is aimed at curbing the influence of extremist preachers from countries such as Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Indonesia, who spread radical ideologies among the British public.
The UK government is preparing a list of such individuals, who will be denied visas and entry permits to the country. The list will include those who have been convicted of terrorism-related offenses, as well as those who have expressed support for violent groups or causes.
The decision comes amid growing concerns over the rise of radicalism and fundamentalism in the UK, which has witnessed several terror attacks and violent protests in recent years. The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has warned that some forces are trying to undermine the country’s multi-ethnic, multi-religious democracy and divide the society.
Sunak made the remarks after a massive march in London last week, which saw clashes between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israeli demonstrators, as well as attacks on British MPs and journalists. Sunak said that the UK’s diversity and tolerance are its greatest strengths and that anyone who threatens them will face the full force of the law.
The UK Home Ministry has also reiterated that there is no place for extremism and intolerance in the country and that the security agencies have the authority to take action against anyone who poses a risk to national security and public order.
