Question : DUAL CITIZENSHIP



(a) The details of rights to be conferred on NRIs after providing dual citizenship to them; and

(b) The details of persons who currently hold dual citizenship and are also holding various posts in the country?

Answer given by the minister


MINISTER OF OVERSEAS INDIAN AFFAIRS (VAYALAR RAVI)

(a) Persons of Indian Origin of all countries, except Pakistan and Bangladesh who fulfill certain conditions are eligible to become Overseas Citizens of India under an Act of Parliament (Indian Citizenship Amendment Act 2005). This is a special category of citizenship and does not amount to dual citizenship. OCIs are entitled to multiple-entry, multi-purpose, life-long visas with no requirement of registration with police. OCIs are not entitled to vote, hold constitutional posts or employment in the Government. They are however eligible to work in the private sector. OCIs enjoy parity with NRIs in respect of economic, financial and educational fields except in acquisition of agricultural and plantation properties.

(b) As on 1st March 2006, 4278 OCI documents have been issued to persons of Indian origin mainly from USA, Australia and Canada. No OCI holds any post in India.