GS2 – Polity
Context:
The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a gazette notification amending the provisions for cancellation of Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) registration.
Amendments to OCI Rules:
OCI cards or registration may now be cancelled if:
- The cardholder is sentenced to imprisonment of two years or more.
- The cardholder is charge-sheeted for an offence carrying punishment of seven years or more.
- These provisions apply irrespective of whether the conviction occurs in India or abroad, as long as the offence is recognised under Indian law.
Existing Grounds for Cancellation (Section 7D, Citizenship Act, 1955):
- Registration obtained through fraud, false representation, or concealment of material facts.
- Demonstrated disaffection towards the Constitution of India.
- Unlawful trade or communication with an enemy during wartime.
- Conviction within five years of registration for imprisonment of two years or more.
- Cancellation in the interest of sovereignty, integrity, security, foreign relations, or public interest.
OCI Scheme Overview:
- Launched in 2005, OCI provides lifelong visa-free travel to India, with multiple-entry privileges.
- Eligible for foreign nationals of Indian origin who were Indian citizens on or after 26 January 1950.
- Excludes former citizens of Pakistan or Bangladesh, including their descendants up to great-grandchildren.
Related Policy:
- See also: Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019