India is taking steps to revoke the registration of several OCI cardholders engaged in pro-Khalistan activities. It is spreading anti-India propaganda, according to two individuals familiar with the matter.
The move comes in the backdrop of India suspending visa services in its Canadian missions. It has directed Canada to cut its diplomatic staff in India.
New Delhi also expelled a senior Canadian diplomat, after Ottawa expelled an Indian diplomat. It ties nosedived over Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegation that India had a role in the killing of Canada-based Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
To be sure, the process of cancelling these OCI cards has been on for some time now. While OCI doesn’t confer political rights, it is in effect a multiple entry, multi-purpose, life-long visa for Indian-origin people living abroad.
OCI holders are exempt from having to register with the Foreign Regional Registration Office. They cannot hold public office, vote in Indian elections or buy agricultural land.
Cancellation is rare. Out of the estimated 4.5 million OCI cards issued till date, only around 150 have been cancelled. It has been canceled after being found in violation of rules.
According to information available on the ministry of external affairs website, a total of 4.06 million OCI registration cards were issued till 31 January, 2022. The central government can cancel the OCI registration if “the overseas citizen of India has shown disaffection towards the Constitution of India as by law established,” and if “it is necessary so to do in the interest of the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of India, friendly relations of India with any foreign country, or in the interests of the general public”.
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What are OCI cards?
OCI stands for Overseas Citizenship of India. It is a type of immigration status or travel document that is available to foreign nationals of Indian origin. OCI cardholders are not Indian citizens but are granted certain privileges and benefits that are similar to those enjoyed by Indian citizens. These privileges include the ability to travel to India without requiring a visa. They can also own property in India, open bank accounts, and more.
OCI cards are typically issued to people who have Indian heritage or have held Indian citizenship at some point but have acquired citizenship of another country. It is a way for the Indian government to maintain ties with the Indian diaspora. It makes easier for people of Indian origin to connect with their ancestral homeland. However, OCI cardholders do not have the right to vote in Indian elections or hold certain government positions.
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