Key Changes to OCI Regulations:
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Travel to certain restricted areas now requires permission.
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Business activities, including property transactions, are subject to tighter controls.
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Special permits are required for missionary or religious work.
The Indian government has introduced stricter regulations for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), reclassifying them as foreign nationals and imposing significant restrictions on their activities within India, reported m9news.
According to a recent circular from the Ministry of Home Affairs, these changes affect the Indian diaspora, especially in areas such as travel, business, and religious engagements.
Previously, OCI cardholders enjoyed privileges similar to Indian citizens, but under the new guidelines, they must now seek special permits for certain activities.
The changes have sparked discontent among OCI cardholders, many of whom feel increasingly disconnected from India due to the additional administrative hurdles
For instance, while visiting India, they are prohibited from entering regions like Jammu and Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh without prior authorization. Additionally, they are restricted from engaging in missionary work or participating in certain religious activities.
Business activities have also become more complicated for OCI cardholders. They now need official permission to acquire, sell, or manage property in India, creating additional bureaucratic hurdles. This has raised concerns among the Indian diaspora, particularly those who regularly visit India for family, cultural, or religious purposes. The new regulations are seen as not only a logistical challenge but also an emotional strain, as they add layers of complexity to maintaining connections with their homeland.
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