Italy's PM. Giorgia Meloni recently announced a strict crackdown on illegal immigration

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni recently announced a strict crackdown on illegal immigration, declaring that anyone entering Italy unlawfully will be immediately deported. This comes amid a larger legislative shift under her right-wing government. The changes, part of a broader strategy to curb irregular migration, include limiting access to "special protection" status, which previously allowed certain migrants, including those with family or economic ties in Italy, to stay in the country. Under the new law, only those at risk of torture or severe human rights violations in their home countries will qualify for protection, and other routes, like converting residence permits to work permits, have been largely scrapped.

This policy, designed to reduce the influx of migrants, especially via dangerous sea routes, has drawn criticism from humanitarian organizations, which argue that it undermines migrant integration and pushes more individuals into precarious, undocumented lives.

I fully support the Italian government's firm stance on illegal immigration, as recently announced by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This decisive action to deport individuals entering the country unlawfully sends a clear message about the importance of upholding national sovereignty and securing borders. In a world facing increasing challenges from irregular migration, such policies are crucial to ensure both national security and the well-being of legitimate citizens and residents.

Italy's new law aims not only to reduce the influx of illegal migrants but also to prevent the dangerous journeys many take to enter Europe, often facilitated by human traffickers. With over 42,000 irregular arrivals reported in 2023, Italy's measures are necessary to manage such flows more effectively and promote legal and orderly immigration​.

I believe India, too, should take inspiration from Italy's strong stance on this issue. Illegal immigration poses significant social, economic, and security challenges, and similar policies in India would help maintain control over borders while supporting legal migration routes. It’s time for India to implement stringent measures that safeguard its citizens and uphold the rule of law, while also considering humanitarian concerns within a lawful framework. By tackling illegal immigration head-on, we can ensure a safer and more stable future for all.