India has initiated the cancellation of the registration of over a dozen Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cardholders due to their involvement in pro-Khalistan activities and anti-India propaganda.
About Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI)
The OCI scheme, introduced in August 2005 by amending the Citizenship Act of 1955, is designed for overseas Indians. It offers long-term visa-free travel and residency privileges in India, which are typically not extended to foreign nationals.
Eligibility for OCI Card
To be eligible for an OCI card, foreign nationals must meet specific criteria, which include:
- Citizenship Status: Individuals who were citizens of India on or after January 26, 1950, or those eligible for Indian citizenship on that date.
- Territorial Affiliation: Those from territories that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
- Lineage: Descendants, including children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, of eligible citizens.
- Parental Citizenship: Minor children of Indian citizen parents or those with one Indian citizen parent.
Entitlements of OCI Cardholders
OCI cardholders enjoy several privileges, including:
- Visa Benefits: Multiple entry, multipurpose, lifelong visa for visits to India.
- Registration Exemption: Exemption from registration with the Foreign Regional Registration Officer or Foreign Registration Officer during their stay in India.
- Parity with Non-Resident Indians: Access to economic, financial, and educational facilities on par with Non-Resident Indians, with some exceptions.
Limitations of OCI Cardholders
However, OCI does not confer full citizenship and comes with certain limitations:
- No Political Rights: OCI cardholders cannot exercise political rights such as voting or holding constitutional posts
- Government Employment: They are typically not allowed to hold government employment.
- Special Permissions: Prior permission is required for missionary work, mountaineering, and journalism.
- Restricted Areas: For visits to certain areas, they need Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP), similar to other foreigners.
Renunciation of OCI
OCI cardholders have the option to renounce their OCI status. When a person of full age and capacity decides to do so, their declaration is registered by the Central Government, and they cease to be an OCI. This renunciation also applies to their minor children who were registered as OCIs.
Cancellation of OCI Registrations
India’s recent move to cancel OCI registrations stems from concerns over individuals engaging in pro-Khalistan activities and anti-India propaganda. The government views these actions as a threat to national security and has decided to take action to safeguard its interests.
UPSC Mains Questions
- What are the key privileges and limitations associated with Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status, and how do these differ from full citizenship rights?
- What factors might lead a government to cancel OCI registrations for certain individuals, and what implications does this have for diplomatic relations and national security?
- How has the OCI scheme contributed to fostering stronger ties between the Indian Diaspora and India itself, both economically and culturally?
- In light of the OCI program, what are the broader implications and challenges for countries seeking to engage their Diaspora communities in various forms of international engagement and collaboration?