The Indian government has cancelled the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) registration of a British academic. The decision was based on allegations of her involvement in anti-India activities through her writings, speeches, and journalistic work at international forums.
What is the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Scheme?
- Introduced through an amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955 in the year 2005.
- Allows foreign citizens of Indian origin to live, work, and travel freely in India.
- Does not amount to dual citizenship.
- In 2015, the OCI and Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) schemes were merged for better management and benefits.
- As of 31st January 2022, around 40.68 lakh OCI cards had been issued.
Eligibility
- Foreign nationals (except those from Pakistan and Bangladesh) who:
- Were citizens of India on or after 26th January 1950.
- Were eligible to become Indian citizens on 26th January 1950.
- Belonged to territories that became part of India after 15th August 1947.
- Are children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren of such persons.
- Minor children of the above categories or of one Indian parent.
- Spouse of an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder, if the marriage has been registered and subsisted for at least two years prior to application.
- Not eligible: Individuals who are serving or have served in any foreign military.
Benefits
- Multiple-entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa for visiting India without repeated applications.
- Parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in economic, financial, and educational fields.
- Cannot acquire agricultural or plantation land or adopt Indian children through inter-country adoption.
- Eligible for Indian citizenship under Section 5(1)(g) of the Citizenship Act, 1955 after 5 years of OCI status, with at least 1 year of residence in India in the preceding 5 years.
- Can join the National Pension System (NPS) at par with NRIs for retirement planning.
Limitations and Restrictions
- OCI does not grant dual citizenship under Indian law.
