Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) Implemented Ahead of Lok Sabha Polls
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has finally been implemented by the Indian government, five years after its passage in Parliament. This move comes just ahead of the announcement of dates for the Lok Sabha elections by the Election Commission of India.
In Short
- Centre implements CAA five years after its parliamentary approval
- CAA, enacted on December 11, 2019, witnessed widespread protests
- CAA provides fast-track citizenship to persecuted migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan
The CAA, enacted on December 11, 2019, has been a topic of intense debate and has witnessed widespread protests across India. The act aims to provide a fast-track pathway to Indian citizenship for migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who belong to Hindu, Sikh, Jain, Parsi, Buddhist, and Christian communities. These migrants must have entered India on or before December 31, 2014, due to facing religious persecution in their home countries.
The implementation of the CAA has been welcomed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, who lauded the notification of the Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2024. He stated that this implementation would enable minorities persecuted on religious grounds in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan to acquire citizenship in India. In a tweet, the Home Minister expressed his satisfaction with the government’s commitment to the Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians living in these countries.
The announcement of the CAA implementation comes after a series of protests that took place across the country. Delhi’s Shaheen Bagh became the epicenter of the anti-CAA protests, while Guwahati, Assam also witnessed protest gatherings. However, these protests gradually fizzled out during the COVID-induced restrictions and lockdowns.
Following the government’s notification, the Delhi Police has increased security in and around the Shaheen Bagh area. This step aims to prevent any potential unrest or protests in response to the implementation of the CAA. Additionally, the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police conducted a flag march in Noida to ensure law and order.
The implementation of the CAA has been a significant development in Indian politics, particularly as it coincides with the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. The timing of this implementation is crucial, as it could potentially influence voter sentiment and political dynamics.
To facilitate the application process, the government has introduced an online mode for submitting citizenship applications. A dedicated web portal has been provided to streamline the process and ensure efficiency.
While the CAA has been a subject of controversy, its implementation marks a significant step in addressing the concerns of persecuted minorities in neighboring countries. By offering a fast-track pathway to Indian citizenship, the government aims to provide a safe haven for individuals who have faced religious persecution.
In conclusion, the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) ahead of the Lok Sabha elections is a significant development in Indian politics. This act provides a fast-track pathway to Indian citizenship for persecuted migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Despite the protests and controversies surrounding the CAA, its implementation reflects the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of minorities facing religious persecution. As the nation awaits the Lok Sabha elections, the impact of the CAA and its implementation will undoubtedly shape the political landscape of India.
After the government’s notification, the Delhi Police has amped up security in and around the Shaheen Bagh area, which was the epicentre of the anti-CAA protests last time. Besides, the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police also conducted a flag march in Noida, following Centre’s announcement.
“As per the directions given by the CM, we are conducting foot patrolling at populated and sensitive areas. Through this, we are trying to assure people that we are with them,” Joint Commissioner Shivhari Meena told news agency PTI.
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