The Indian government has issued a robust response to the United States' commentary on the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), categorically asserting that it is an internal matter of India.
Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasized India's commitment to pluralistic traditions and freedom of religion enshrined in its constitution. He cautioned against attempts to lecture India by those lacking a nuanced understanding of its cultural fabric and historical context.
Jaiswal reiterated that the CAA is aligned with India's inclusive ethos and upholds its long-standing dedication to human rights. He clarified that the Act aims to provide sanctuary to persecuted minorities from neighboring countries, emphasizing its role in addressing statelessness and safeguarding human dignity.
Regarding the concerns expressed by the US State Department and others, Jaiswal dismissed them as misplaced, misinformed, and unwarranted. He stressed that the CAA is about granting citizenship, not revoking it, and assured that it does not affect the citizenship status of Indian Muslims.
The Indian government's response comes in the wake of the US State Department's statement expressing apprehensions about the CAA's notification and pledging to monitor its implementation closely. The government's implementation of the CAA on March 11, aimed at providing citizenship to undocumented non-Muslim migrants from neighboring countries, has garnered international attention and scrutiny.
In light of the ongoing discourse, the Indian government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of all communities and ensuring the inclusive and democratic principles enshrined in its constitution.
