The distribution of citizenship certificates in Nabarangpur marks an important milestone in the implementation of the CAA, reinforcing India’s image as a nation guided by compassion, justice and constitutional values
In a significant step towards implementing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday distributed Indian citizenship certificates to 35 individuals belonging to minority communities from neighbouring countries. These beneficiaries, currently residing in Nabarangpur district, had applied for citizenship under the provisions of the Act after fleeing religious persecution in their home nations.
Addressing a special programme organised jointly by the Directorate of Census Operations, Odisha, and the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Chief Minister described the CAA as a transformative law that offers dignity, security and a renewed future to those who have suffered for years due to religious discrimination. Drawing a powerful analogy, he likened the Act to the sacred river Ganga, saying it symbolises purification from pain and injustice faced by persecuted minorities.
Majhi noted that the law has opened a clear and lawful pathway to Indian citizenship for eligible individuals from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan who entered India on or before December 31, 2014. The process gained momentum after the Ministry of Home Affairs notified the CAA rules on March 11, 2024, enabling applicants to formalise their status and become Indian citizens.
- Welcoming the new citizens, the Chief Minister said their inclusion strengthens the nation’s social fabric
- “You are now part of our collective future. Ensuring your safety, dignity and development is our shared responsibility,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive growth and human values.
Majhi emphasised that India has a long-standing tradition of offering shelter to those in distress, and the granting of citizenship under the CAA reflects the country’s moral duty to protect persecuted communities. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for their leadership in implementing what he termed a historic and humanitarian law.
Explaining the rationale behind the Act, the Chief Minister pointed out that while many countries provide refuge to religious minorities, persecuted Hindus and other minority groups in neighbouring nations often have no natural homeland to turn to except India. In that context, he said, the CAA fulfils an essential responsibility.
He also remarked that debates around secularism should not ignore the plight of minorities beyond India’s borders. According to him, the Act does not discriminate but instead upholds equality before the law while addressing a unique humanitarian concern.
