The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, commonly referred to as the CAA, has been a subject of significant debate and controversy since its inception. Understanding the timeline of its introduction provides crucial insights into its historical context and implications. In India, the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) has generated a great deal of discussion and contention. Understanding the timeline of its introduction sheds light on the context surrounding this legislation. Read about it further to know more.
Background of CAA
In order to reform the Citizenship Act of 1955, the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAA) was first presented in the Lok Sabha in 2016. After being referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee, the bill was passed by the Lok Sabha on January 8, 2019. That expired, though, when the 16th Lok Sabha was dissolved.
Reintroduction and Passage
On December 9, 2019, Minister of Home Affairs Amit Shah reintroduced the Citizenship Amendment Bill in the 17th Lok Sabha. Subsequently, the Rajya Sabha also passed the bill on December 11, 2019, leading to its enactment.
Key Provisions
The CAA aims to provide Indian citizenship to undocumented immigrants who entered India on or before December 31, 2014, from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. It specifically targets migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian communities.
Implementation
The President gave his consent to the CAA after it was passed in December 2019. However, its implementation faced delays until March 11, 2024, when the Indian government officially announced its enforcement.
Controversies and Reactions
The CAA has sparked widespread protests and criticism across India due to concerns about discrimination against Muslims and potential implications on secularism. While some view it as a humanitarian gesture towards persecuted minorities, others perceive it as exclusionary and divisive.
The Citizenship Amendment Act’s journey from invention to implementation is a complicated mix of legal processes, political forces, and public reactions. Understanding the timeframe sheds light on the evolution and influence of this contentious legislation in India’s sociopolitical scene.