New Delhi: In a recent statement, Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the concerns of the Muslim community regarding the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Shah emphasized that the CAA, passed by the Parliament in 2019, would not jeopardize anyone's citizenship rights. Despite the act being in force, the Centre is yet to notify its rules, creating a climate of uncertainty.
Assurance Amid Provocation
Shah spoke out against the provocation faced by Muslims in light of the CAA. He reiterated that the act was not designed to strip anyone of their citizenship, as there is no provision within the legislation to do so. Highlighting the purpose of the CAA, Shah stressed its role in offering citizenship to refugees who faced persecution in Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Implementation Timeline
During the ET Now-Global Business summit in the national capital, Shah affirmed that the CAA would be fully implemented before the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. He urged clarity on the matter, assuring that the act would be notified and implemented as promised. Shah underlined that the CAA serves to provide citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who arrived in India before December 31, 2014.
Political Backlash and Historical Context
The passage of the CAA in 2019 sparked widespread protests, notably in Delhi's Shaheen Bagh area. Shah took aim at the Congress, highlighting the party's role in the creation of the act and accusing it of backtracking on its promises to refugees. He underscored the historical context, reminding that the Congress had initially welcomed refugees and pledged Indian citizenship to them.
Uniform Civil Code Discourse
In addition to addressing concerns over the CAA, Shah delved into the discourse surrounding the Uniform Civil Code (UCC). He cited the UCC as a constitutional agenda signed by India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, expressing disappointment over the Congress party's subsequent neglect of the issue due to appeasement politics. Shah stressed the importance of a secular nation adopting a uniform civil code, highlighting Uttarakhand's enforcement of the UCC as a significant step towards social change.
Conclusion
Amit Shah's reassurance regarding the Citizenship Amendment Act comes at a crucial time, as tensions persist among certain communities. His commitment to implementing the CAA alongside discussions on the Uniform Civil Code reflects the government's stance on citizenship and legal reform. As the nation navigates through these contentious issues, clarity and dialogue remain paramount for fostering understanding and harmony.
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