Debate on Dual Citizenship for Indians

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  • Resurfaced Debate: Discussions on dual citizenship for Indians are gaining momentum, questioning the adequacy of the existing Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI).

  • Largest Diaspora: India has a large diaspora with over 3.5 crore Indians living abroad, being the top recipient of remittances.

  • Limitations of OCI: OCI is not genuine dual citizenship, lacking political rights and land ownership, perceived as a privilege, not a right.

  • Changing Global Climate: Hardening global stance towards migrants and increasing renunciation of Indian citizenship necessitate reconsideration of dual citizenship.

  • Strategic Engagement: Dual citizenship can strengthen India’s soft power, diaspora investment, and cultural links.

  • Constitutional Restrictions: Article 9 of the Indian Constitution prohibits dual citizenship, requiring renunciation of Indian citizenship upon acquiring foreign nationality.

  • Democratic Legitimacy: Concerns over divided allegiance and potential external influence challenge democratic sovereignty.

  • Security Concerns: Fears of security risks and legal grey zones, especially with sensitive professions abroad.

  • Enhanced OCI Framework: Provide greater legal stability and rights within the OCI framework, with transparent processes.

  • Participatory Mechanisms: Consider limited political participation for OCIs at the local governance level (e.g., panchayats).

  • Cultural Identity Programs: Expand programs connecting diaspora youth with Indian heritage.

  • Selective Dual Citizenship: If introduced, restrict it to strategic partner nations, excluding high offices.

  • 25th Anniversary: The Report of the High-Level Committee on the Indian Diaspora recommended dual citizenship.

  • Emotional and Practical Security: Genuine dual citizenship provides secure rights, differing from selectively withdrawn privileges of OCI.

  • Shift in Presumption: Change the requirement of Indians to give up citizenship to a presumption that Indians retain citizenship.

  • Political Rights: Voting can be limited to those who return or conducted abroad. Restrict high offices to those without another citizenship.

  • Security Concerns Overblown: Concerns may be addressed by limiting citizenship to those with more recent links.

  • Make laws applicable to dual citizens as well and they should not constitute a threat.
  • Emotional Ties Dual citizenship will strengthen symbolic, psychological and practical bonds, enhancing energy.