Pakistani Hindus in Rajasthan Facing Uncertain Future

• 26 Apr 2024

Why in News?

According to the sources, Pakistani Hindus in Rajasthan are facing an uncertain future amidst the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA)2019.

Key Points

• During the current general elections, amidst the widespread enthusiasm surrounding the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 which has provided relief for some, individuals who arrived in India after December 31, 2014, are facing numerous uncertainties.
• These individuals are now required to seek citizenship under the primary Citizenship Act of 1955, a process that historically has resulted in prolonged waiting periods for applicants.
• Pakistani Hindu families who migrated to Barmer, a region bordering Pakistan, years ago, express the sentiment that the CAA or citizenship legislation holds limited value until their living conditions are improved.
• Despite acquiring Indian citizenship, many of these families continue to reside in impoverished conditions and face social stigmatization.

Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), 2019

• The Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019 seeks to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955.
• The CAA provides citizenship on the basis of religion to six undocumented non-Muslim communities (Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis and Christians) from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who entered India on or before 31^st December, 2014.
• It exempts the members of the six communities from any criminal case under the Foreigners Act, 1946 and the Passport Act, 1920.
• The two Acts specify punishment for entering the country illegally and staying here on expired visas and permits.