New Delhi: In a significant move, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has been implemented across the country starting today, as announced by the central government through a notification. This decision comes just ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, demonstrating the Modi government's proactive stance on the issue. The CAA aims to provide a pathway to Indian citizenship for refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, excluding Muslims, who have faced religious persecution in their home countries.
What Changes with the Implementation of CAA?
With the implementation of the CAA, refugees belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Christian, and Parsi communities from the aforementioned countries will now have the opportunity to apply for Indian citizenship. This significant shift in policy aims to address the plight of persecuted minorities seeking refuge in India, offering them a chance at a better life and a sense of belonging.
Understanding CAA and its Controversies
The Citizenship Amendment Bill, which later became the CAA, was passed in Parliament on December 11, 2019. While it received support for its humanitarian goals, the exclusion of Muslims from its purview sparked a contentious debate. Critics argue that the Act violates the principle of equality enshrined in Article 14 of the Constitution. Over 200 Public Interest Litigations (PILs) were filed against the Act, highlighting the deep divisions it has caused within society.
What Does CAA Entail?
It's important to note that CAA itself does not grant citizenship automatically. The Act is applicable to individuals who entered India as refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh on or before December 31, 2014. To be eligible, applicants must prove their residency since that date, provide evidence of religious persecution, demonstrate proficiency in the language of their home country, and meet other criteria outlined in the Citizenship Act of 1955. Only after fulfilling these requirements can individuals apply for citizenship under CAA.
The implementation of CAA is expected to have far-reaching implications for the social fabric of the country and is likely to remain a topic of debate and discussion in the political arena for the foreseeable future.