In Australia, many Indian “students” are protesting for permanent residency. These individuals came on student visas, but instead of returning to India after finishing their studies, they are applying for asylum to stay in Australia.
Recent protests have been intense. In Perth, asylum seekers have been camping outside Labor MP Sam Lim’s office for nine days, demanding permanent residency to escape the limitations of their temporary bridging visas. These visas need constant renewal and don’t provide Medicare, work, or study rights.
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The situation became more urgent after Tamil asylum seeker Mano Yogalingam self-immolated in Melbourne last month, having waited 12 years for a permanent visa.
In Melbourne, protesters have been outside Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke’s office for over a month. Nationwide, over 500 people rallied in Sydney on August 31, calling for better protections and an end to deportations.
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The Refugee Council criticizes the government’s handling of the situation, urging asylum seekers to be granted basic rights to safety, work, and education.
Indian “students” are protesting in Australia demanding permanent residency.
These Indians came to Australia under student visa and when their studies finished, they are refusing to go back home.
Most of them are applying for “asylum” status. pic.twitter.com/bh0xiDDgsH
— Klaus Arminius (@Klaus_Arminius) September 9, 2024
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