In a recent discussion on the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), Indian Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized the validity and permanence of the law, dismissing any possibility of its repeal. Shah’s remarks come amidst ongoing debates and protests surrounding the controversial legislation, which aims to grant citizenship to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries.
Home Minister Shah Raises Concern Over Decline in Hindu and Sikh Population in Pakistan, Stresses CAA’s Importance in Offering Refuge to Persecuted Minorities
One of the key points raised by Shah was the significant decline in the Hindu and Sikh population in Pakistan since its partition from India in 1947. He highlighted that while Hindus and Sikhs constituted 23% of Pakistan’s population at the time of partition, their percentage has dwindled to a mere 3.7% today. Similarly, the Hindu and Sikh populations in Bangladesh and Afghanistan have also seen a substantial decrease over the years.
The CAA, enacted in 2019, offers citizenship to persecuted religious minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who sought refuge in India due to religious persecution. However, critics argue that the law discriminates against Muslims and goes against the secular principles of India’s constitution.
Shah reiterated the constitutional validity of the CAA, emphasizing that it aims to provide relief to persecuted minorities who have faced religious discrimination in their home countries. He pointed out that the law does not discriminate against Muslims living in India and that they still have avenues available under the Indian constitution to apply for citizenship.
Amit Shah Defends CAA Against Opposition Criticism, Stresses Commitment to Protecting Persecuted Minorities
Opposition parties, including Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress and Arvind Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party, have been vocal in their criticism of the CAA, alleging that it undermines India’s secular fabric and discriminates against Muslims. However, Shah countered these claims, asserting that the CAA is essential for safeguarding the interests of persecuted minorities and maintaining India’s sovereignty.
Addressing concerns about the legality of the CAA, Shah clarified that the Supreme Court has not stayed the implementation of the law. He also reassured that the government is committed to ensuring that all eligible individuals receive citizenship under the CAA, with approximately 85% of applicants already having their documentation in order.
In response to criticism from foreign media outlets, Shah urged them to reflect on the legal and constitutional provisions in their own countries, particularly regarding issues such as divorce laws and minority rights. He defended the CAA as a measure aimed at protecting the rights of persecuted minorities and maintaining India’s status as a refuge for those facing religious persecution.
Amit Shah’s staunch defense of the Citizenship Amendment Act underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the plight of persecuted minorities while upholding the principles of India’s constitution. Despite ongoing opposition and criticism, Shah remains firm in his stance that the CAA is a lawful and necessary measure to safeguard the rights of vulnerable communities.