Q. Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) is against Indian Muslims, they need to get their papers ready to continue living in the country?
Ans. One of the worst lies being spread is that Indian Muslims need to worry about the bill. The citizenship Amendment Act has nothing to do with Indian citizens, Muslim or otherwise, as it seeks to grant citizenship to religious minorities in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan.
Q. If CAA is about religious persecution, why Shias, Ahmediyyas, Balochs and Rohingyas are not included?
Ans. All these groups are Muslims, they are not recognized as separate religious anywhere in the world. As Muslims, they are not minorities in Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, which are either officially Islamic countries or have a very high Muslim majority.
Q. Muslims for Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan cannot apply for citizenship or refuge in India?
Ans. Although Muslims from these countries have been excluded from the CAA, it does not mean the door is shut forever for becoming Indian citizens.
Q. Muslims from other countries cannot become Indian citizens after CAA is passed?
Ans. The amendment does not cancel the existing naturalization laws. Any person from any foreign country seeking to be Indian Citizen can apply for the same under the existing laws. There is no bar on Muslims from anywhere in the world to seek Indian Citizenship under existing laws, CAA does not prohibit that.
Q. Can Muslims from these three countries get Indian citizenship?
Ans. Yes, as before. They will go through’ the usual process of acquiring citizenship through’ naturalization rules….11 years of residence etc.
