Following India’s independence in 1947, the Constituent Assembly faced the challenge of defining citizenship amidst waves of migration. Debates ensued, rejecting citizenship by religion. The Citizenship Amendment Act now fast-tracks non-Muslim minorities for citizenship, sparking controversy. Historical context reveals a complex evolution: colonial rule lacked clear citizenship laws, while post-Partition concerns led to cutoff dates and permit systems. The Assembly ultimately adopted jus soli, favoring birthright citizenship. However, challenges remain, raising questions of inclusion and exclusion in India’s citizenship narrative.
Tracing India’s Citizenship Journey: From Partition to the Present
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