Controversies Surround UK PM Rishi Sunak: From Visa Policies To Lavish Spending

Since becoming UK Prime Minister on October 25, 2022, Rishi Sunak has faced scrutiny and controversy over various decisions and actions. Despite making history as the first British-Asian PM and the first Hindu to hold the office, Sunak’s tenure has been marked by several contentious moments.

1. Immigrant visa, Graduate route visa policy: In May 2024, Sunak faced criticism for considering restrictions to the UK’s post-study visa, which allows graduates to stay and work for up to two years after completing their degree. However, after opposition from key cabinet members and concerns about its impact on universities and the economy, Sunak abandoned the plans.
2. Post office scandal: In January 2024, Sunak proposed a law to help victims of the Post Office scandal, where employees were wrongly accused due to software issues. The proposed law would offer an upfront payment of £75,000 to former post office workers who were part of a legal case in 2019. This came after the Metropolitan Police started investigating possible fraud related to the scandal.
3. Foreign students – English test scandal: In March 2023, international students, including many from India, petitioned Sunak over the revocation of their visas following an English test scandal in 2014. They called for fair treatment, transparent processes, and support for affected students.
4. Spent Rs. 3.8 crore on a swimming pool amid drought: Reports surfaced in 2022 that Sunak had spent approximately ₹3.8 crore on a lavish swimming pool within his mansion in North Yorkshire, amid concerns over drought and a severe heatwave in England.
5. Akshata Murty using fancy teacups: Sunak’s wife, Akshata Murty, faced criticism in 2022 for using expensive teacups. While serving tea to photographers outside their home, Murty used cups from designer Emma Lacey’s ‘The Everyday Mug Range’, which retail for £38 each.

These incidents have contributed to a challenging start for Sunak’s tenure as UK Prime Minister, highlighting the complexities and controversies of his leadership.