Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has confirmed that three foreign nationals have been granted Indian citizenship in the state under the provisions of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019. This marks one of the initial instances of citizenship being conferred under the controversial law within Assam.
The Citizenship (Amendment) Act offers a pathway to Indian citizenship for non-Muslim refugees, specifically Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians, who fled religious persecution in neighboring countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan before December 31, 2014. Under Section 6B of the Indian Citizenship Act, 1955, eligible applicants can apply for citizenship through a streamlined naturalization process.
The Assam government has been actively facilitating applications under the CAA. The Border Police have been directed to advise potential beneficiaries to submit their claims through the official online portal, ensuring a transparent and systematic procedure.
While the granting of citizenship to these three individuals signals progress in implementing the CAA, it has reignited debates across Assam. The state, which has a long history of complex migration patterns and demographic concerns, remains divided on the issue. Supporters argue that the law provides refuge to persecuted minorities, while opponents fear it could impact Assam’s socio-political balance and undermine the Assam Accord.
As the CAA’s implications continue to unfold, the Assam government has reiterated its commitment to balancing the concerns of its indigenous population with legal obligations under the Act. The latest development is expected to influence ongoing discussions on citizenship policies and migration management in the state.
