Source: HT
Context: MHA has amended Citizenship Act rules to allow cancellation of OCI registration if the cardholder is convicted for two years or more, or charge-sheeted for offences punishable with seven years or more, regardless of where the offence occurred.
About Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) Scheme:
- What it is?
- A legal status allowing foreign nationals of Indian origin to live, work, and travel in India without repeatedly applying for a visa.
- Launched in: 2005
- Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
- Aim:
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- Strengthen engagement between India and its diaspora.
- Provide long-term residency and travel benefits to persons of Indian origin.
- Key Features:
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- Eligibility: Persons who were citizens of India on or after 26 January 1950, or their descendants (excluding those with Pakistani/Bangladeshi citizenship in self or ancestry).
- Visa Benefits: Lifelong, multiple-entry, multi-purpose visa for visiting India.
- Economic & Educational Rights: Right to own property (except agricultural/plantation land), pursue education, and invest in India.
- No Political Rights: Not entitled to vote or hold constitutional posts.
About New Rules under MHA Notification:
- Grounds for Cancellation of OCI Registration (as per clause (da) of Section 7D, Citizenship Act, 1955):
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- Conviction-Based: Sentenced to imprisonment of two years or more.
- Charge-Sheet Based: Charge-sheeted for offences punishable with seven years or more.
- Irrespective of Jurisdiction: Applicable whether conviction/charge-sheet is in India or abroad, provided offence is recognised under Indian law.
- Other Existing Grounds (already under law):
- Fraud or concealment in obtaining OCI.
- Disaffection towards the Constitution.
- Unlawful trade/communication with the enemy during war.
- Acts against sovereignty, integrity, security of India, friendly foreign relations, or public interest.
