12.4 Dual citizenship debates and overseas citizen status

India's stance on dual citizenship has evolved, shifting from prohibition to the introduction of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status in 2005. This quasi-citizenship allows foreign citizens of Indian origin to maintain ties with India, granting various privileges but not full political rights.

The Indian diaspora's demand for dual citizenship stems from desires to maintain cultural connections and increase opportunities. While OCI status provides benefits like lifelong visas and economic parity with NRIs, it falls short of full dual citizenship, impacting diaspora members' sense of identity and belonging.

Dual Citizenship and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Status

Concept of dual citizenship

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• Dual citizenship refers to the legal status of being a citizen of two countries simultaneously, allowing individuals to hold passports and enjoy rights and privileges in both countries (United States and India)
• Implications for the Indian diaspora include the ability to maintain ties with India while integrating into host countries, potential benefits in terms of travel, work opportunities, and cultural connections, and challenges related to legal obligations, such as taxation and military service

Evolution of India's citizenship policies

• India's historical stance on dual citizenship originally prohibited dual citizenship in the Indian Constitution, viewing emigration as a loss of talent and resources (brain drain)
• Gradual shift in policy occurred with recognition of the Indian diaspora's potential contributions to India's development and desire to strengthen ties with the diaspora and encourage investment
• Introduction of the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status in 2005 provided a quasi-citizenship status for foreign citizens of Indian origin, granting multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa and exemption from registration requirements but not conferring political rights, such as the right to vote or hold public office

Diaspora demand for dual citizenship

• Reasons for the demand for dual citizenship among the Indian diaspora include the desire to maintain cultural and emotional connections with India, facilitation of travel and business opportunities between India and host countries (United States, United Kingdom), and aspiration for political representation and participation in India's decision-making processes
• Arguments in favor of dual citizenship highlight the strengthening of ties between India and its diaspora, potential for increased investment and knowledge transfer, and enhancement of India's soft power and global influence
• Arguments against dual citizenship raise concerns about divided loyalties and potential security risks, complexity of legal and administrative arrangements, and potential strain on India's resources and infrastructure

Impact of OCI status

• Rights and privileges granted to OCI cardholders include multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa for visiting India, exemption from registration requirements for stays exceeding 180 days, and parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in economic, financial, and educational fields
• Limitations of the OCI status include no right to vote, hold public office, or acquire agricultural or plantation properties, and it is not equivalent to full dual citizenship
• Impact on the sense of belonging and identity involves reinforcement of emotional and cultural ties with India, facilitation of transnational lifestyles and flexible citizenship arrangements (living in both India and the United States), and potential challenges in reconciling multiple identities and loyalties