The controversial Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has taken its first step forward with the Indian government issuing citizenship certificates to 14 refugees. The Ministry of Home Affairs processed their applications online and handed over the certificates on Wednesday. Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla presented the certificates.
Bhavana, one of the recipients from Pakistan, expressed her joy at becoming an Indian citizen. "Today, I received Indian citizenship. I am very happy. Now, I can continue my studies. I came here in 2014 and was delighted when CAA passed. In Pakistan, girls have fewer opportunities to study. Going out was difficult, always having to wear a burqa. But the situation in India is completely different. I am now in 11th grade and also attending tuitions," she said excitedly.
Home Minister Amit Shah expressed his satisfaction with the issuance of the first batch of citizenship certificates. "Today, the Ministry of Home Affairs has initiated the issuance of citizenship certificates under the CAA. Congratulations to the 14 refugees who received citizenship. CAA is a promise made to the nation by Prime Minister Modi," he said.
To expedite granting Indian citizenship to refugees, the central government implemented the CAA, amending the Citizenship Act of 1955. Under this law, Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists, and Christians from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who entered India due to religious persecution before December 31, 2014, are eligible for fast-track citizenship. However, many oppose this law, arguing that granting citizenship based on religion violates the constitution.
