Britain stands at a crossroads. It can either allow fear-driven nationalism to redefine its identity or reaffirm its legacy as a multicultural democracy
Blame it on economic collapse, the mobile revolution, or the dominoes of geopolitics, but the world is drifting steadily to the far right — marked by chaos on the streets and hatred in hearts. The “Unite the Kingdom” rally in London is a telling example. More than a hundred thousand people joined the “Unite the Kingdom” rally led by far-right activist Tommy Robinson in London. Their ire is fixed on immigrants, whom they accuse of bringing misery and tarnishing the pride of the Empire. What was supposed to be a “festival of free speech” turned into a showcase of racist conspiracy theories, anti-Muslim slogans, and open hostility towards immigrants. Clashes with police, assaults on officers, and incendiary speeches marked one of the largest gatherings in the UK in recent times. The far right’s rise in the UK is not sudden — it has been simmering for years. Economic insecurities, post-Brexit disillusionment, and a surge in asylum seekers arriving across the English Channel have fuelled resentment. Robinson and his allies have channelled this discontent, painting migrants as a threat to British culture, jobs, and security. The rhetoric of a so-called “great replacement”, echoed by European extremists, has gained traction among Britons who are struggling in life. Flags, chants of “stop the boats”, and slogans about “taking our country back” reflect how narrow nationalism is being rebranded as patriotism.
The implications of this surge are not confined to Britain alone. For India, the consequences are significant. The UK has one of the largest Indian diasporas, deeply embedded in its professional, academic, and political life. Rising hostility towards immigrants — especially those of Asian and Muslim origin — threatens not only the safety of Indian-origin communities but also the bilateral ties that London and New Delhi have carefully cultivated. Episodes of xenophobic violence or policy tightening on migration could directly impact Indian students, professionals, and families seeking opportunities in Britain.
Moreover, such developments can cast a shadow on ongoing trade negotiations and cooperation in technology and education. The UK Government must give far rightists a strong message that they cannot be allowed to trample the British values of democracy and openness. The resentment against immigrants is bound to have repercussions, as there is a sizeable immigrant population in the UK. It must firmly enforce law and order against violent rallies without appearing to stifle legitimate debate.
Second, it should craft a transparent, fair immigration policy that balances security concerns with the economic necessity of migrant labour and skills. Finally, it must invest in dialogue and community programmes to rebuild trust between native populations and immigrant communities. What is at stake here for the UK is not only its social cohesion but also its reputation as a free and fair country!
