Lucknow Welcomes New Citizens under the CAA
On Wednesday, May 15th, 2024, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath celebrated a historic moment as 14 individuals received Indian citizenship certificates under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in New Delhi. These individuals, belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian communities, had sought refuge in India after facing religious persecution in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
Chief Minister Adityanath expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for initiating the CAA, stating that it marked a golden chapter in the history of humanity. He congratulated the new citizens and acknowledged their long wait for this moment.
The Central Government, represented by Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla, handed over the first set of citizenship certificates, marking the official implementation of the CAA rules notified two months prior. The certificates were physically presented to 14 applicants, while many others received digital certificates via email.
The process for granting citizenship under the CAA involves applications being received by District Level Committees (DLCs) and reviewed by State Level Empowered Committees (ECs). These committees verify documents, administer oaths of allegiance, and ultimately decide on citizenship grants. In this instance, the Empowered Committee in Delhi granted citizenship to 14 applicants after thorough scrutiny.
This event signifies a significant step towards fulfilling the CAA's objective of providing refuge and citizenship to persecuted religious minorities from neighboring countries. It marks a new chapter for these individuals, offering them the opportunity to rebuild their lives with security and dignity in India.