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US expresses concern over India's Citizenship Amendment Act

The act aims at providing citizenship to undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan

US expresses concern over India's Citizenship Amendment Act / Screengrab from official video

The United States has expressed apprehension regarding India's Citizenship (Amendment) Act, emphasizing close monitoring of its implementation. Matthew Miller, the State Department Spokesperson, conveyed the nation's concerns during a routine press briefing, highlighting the significance of religious freedom and equitable treatment under the law for all societal factions.

Miller said, “We are concerned about the notification of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act on Mar. 11."

“We are closely monitoring how this act will be implemented. Respect for religious freedom and equal treatment under the law for all communities are fundamental democratic principles," Miller responded to a question.

The enactment of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019 by the Indian Central government on Mar. 11 has raised eyebrows, particularly due to its timing just days before the announcement of the Lok Sabha election schedule.

The act, aimed at providing citizenship to undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who entered India before Dec. 31, 2014, has drawn international attention.

Under the provisions of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019, migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh, who arrived in India before the specified date and cited "religious persecution," stand eligible for citizenship. Notably, this applies to individuals belonging to six specific religious minorities: Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian.

However, the CAA has been met with widespread protests within India, with critics alleging that the act discriminates against one particular community, thereby contravening the principles of equality enshrined in India's Constitution. The contentious nature of the legislation has sparked a nationwide debate on the protection of fundamental rights and the adherence to democratic values.

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