The Citizenship is part of Indian Polity and Governance. Below are notes on 11 sub-topics, followed by practice MCQs from State PSC and UPSC papers.

Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA): Provisions and Controversies

  • Purpose: To grant a path to Indian citizenship for specific persecuted minority communities who have migrated from neighbouring countries.
  • Beneficiaries: Members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian communities.
  • Origin Countries: Who have migrated from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
  • Entry Deadline: Who entered India on or before December 31, 2014. lands, and Ladakh do not have Rajya Sabha representation.
  • President's power to make regulations (Article 240): The President can make regulations for the peace, progress, and good government of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, and Puducherry.
  • Zonal Councils: Are advisory bodies that group States and UTs.
  • Hukam Singh Committee (1962): Recommended transfer of more subjects to Territorial Councils.
  • Island Development Agency (IDA): Set up on June 1, 2017, for holistic development of islands; 10 islands identified in the first phase.
  • Special Category Status (SCS): Bihar has never been granted SCS by the Central Government.
  • UT with lowest population (2001 Census): Lakshadweep.
  • Largest UT by area: Ladakh.
  • Accession Day: Jammu & Kashmir celebrates Accession Day on October 26.
  • Years of Creation/Establishment as UTs:
    • Lakshadweep: 1956 (as Laccadive, Minicoy & Amindivi Islands)
    • Dadra and Nagar Haveli: 1961
    • Daman and Diu: 1962 (part of Goa, Daman & Diu UT)
    • Chandigarh: 1966
  • Citizenship by Naturalisation: Reduces the residency requirement from 11/12 years to 5/6 years for these specific communities from the three nations.
  • Exempted Areas: The Act does not apply to:
    • Areas included in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution (autonomous tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram).
    • Areas requiring an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for entry (Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur).
  • Exclusions: Does not cover Muslims from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, or any other religious groups or minorities from other neighbouring countries (e.g., Sri Lankan Tamils, Rohingya Muslims).
  • Enactment Timeline:
    • Passed by Parliament in 2019.
    • Received Presidential assent on December 12, 2019.
    • Came into force on January 10, 2020.
    • The Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2024, were notified on March 11, 2024, to facilitate the application process.
  • Controversies:
    • Alleged violation of the secular principles of the Indian Constitution, particularly Article 14 (Right to Equality), by linking citizenship to religion.
    • Exclusion of other persecuted groups, which critics argue makes the Act discriminatory.
    • Seen by critics as potentially complementing the National Register of Citizens (NRC) exercise.

Citizenship Act, 1955: Main Features

  • The Citizenship Act, 1955 determines Indian citizenship for persons on or after 26th January, 1950.
  • Parliament has exclusive power to prescribe conditions for acquisition and termination of Indian citizenship (Article 11).
  • The Government of India issued the Citizenship (Pondicherry) Order in 1962.
  • Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, traces its roots to the Assam Accord of 1985.
  • Section 6A deals with immigrants who entered Assam from Bangladesh (erstwhile East Pakistan).
  • Immigrants who entered Assam prior to January 1, 1966, are deemed Indian citizens under Section 6A.
  • Immigrants who entered Assam between January 1, 1966, and March 25, 1971, are conferred citizenship after fulfilling specific procedures and conditions under Section 6A.
  • Section 6A bars citizenship to those who entered Assam after March 25, 1971.
  • A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court, in a 4:1 majority judgment, upheld the constitutionality of Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Citizenship and Domicile: Distinction

  • Citizenship in a modern democratic state is primarily a legal right (also considered a statutory right as it's established by law/statutes).
  • Citizenship is governed by Part II of the Indian Constitution (Articles 5-11) and the Citizenship Act, 1955.
  • Domicile refers to a person's permanent home, which determines their personal laws (e.g., marriage, succession). A person can have only one domicile.
  • Distinction: Citizenship confers political rights and duties (e.g., right to vote, hold public office), establishing full membership of the state. Domicile is a legal concept defining a person's legal home for the application of personal laws.
  • An Aadhaar card serves as proof of identity and residence, but it is not a proof of citizenship or domicile.
  • The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) can deactivate or omit Aadhaar numbers under certain circumstances (e.g., multiple enrollments, death, proof discrepancies), contrary to permanent issuance.

Constitutional Provisions (Articles 5-11)

Part II of the Indian Constitution deals with 1. Citizenship. Articles 5 to 11 of the Constitution relate to 2. Citizenship. Constitutional provisions related to citizen3. ship (Articles 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) came into force on November 26, 1949. Article 5: Citizenship at the commencement 4. of the Constitution (Jan 26, 1950).

    • Every person who has their domicile in the territory of India AND:
    • (a) Was born in the territory of India, OR
    • (b) Either of whose parents was born in the territory of India, OR
    • (c) Who has been ordinarily residing in the territory of India for not less than five years immediately preceding such commencement.
    • The expression "every person" includes a prisoner and a member of the armed forces for the purpose of Article 5. Article 6: Rights of citizenship of certain 6. persons who have migrated to India from Pakistan. Article 7: Rights of citizenship of certain 7. migrants to Pakistan (who returned to India under a permit for resettlement or permanent return). Article 8: Rights of citizenship of certain 8. persons of Indian origin residing outside India. Article 9: No person shall be a citizen of 9. India if they have voluntarily acquired citizenship of a foreign state. Article 10: Continuance of the rights of cit10. izenship, subject to any law made by Parliament. Article 11: Parliament to regulate the right of 11. citizenship by law.
    • Empowers Parliament to make any provision with respect to the acquisition, termination, and all other matters relating to citizenship.
    • Parliament has the exclusive power to determine issues of citizenship in India (e.g., through the Citizenship Act, 1955).

Distinction between Citizens, Aliens, and Refugees

  • Citizen: Full member of the Indian State, owing allegiance, enjoying all civil and political rights.
  • Alien: Foreign national, not an Indian citizen.
    • Friendly Alien: Citizen of a country at peace with India (e.g., Canada). Enjoys most fundamental rights except those reserved for citizens.
    • Enemy Alien: Citizen of a country at war with India. Subject to greater restrictions; specifically, lacks protection against arrest and detention under preventive detention laws (Art 22).
  • Refugee: Person fleeing persecution or war, seeking asylum. Not specifically defined by Indian domestic law (India is not a signatory to 1951 UN Convention or 1967 Protocol), generally treated as aliens.
  • Fundamental Rights available ONLY to Citizens:
    • Art 15: Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
    • Art 16: Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
    • Art 19: Protection of six rights regarding freedom (speech & expression, assembly, association, movement, residence, profession).
    • Art 29: Protection of language, script, and culture of minorities.
    • Art 30: Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions.
  • Fundamental Rights available to BOTH Citizens & Friendly Aliens:
    • Art 14: Equality before law and equal protection of laws.
    • Art 20: Protection in respect of conviction for offences.
    • Art 21: Protection of life and personal liberty.
    • Art 21A: Right to elementary education.
    • Art 22: Protection against arrest and detention in certain cases (except enemy aliens for preventive detention).
    • Art 23: Prohibition of human trafficking and forced labour.
    • Art 24: Prohibition of employment of children in factories etc.
    • Art 25: Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice, and propagation of religion.
    • Art 26: Freedom to manage religious affairs.
    • Art 27: Freedom as to payment of taxes for promotion of any particular religion.
    • Art 28: Freedom as to attendance at religious instruction or religious worship in certain educational institutions.
  • Other Privileges/Duties for Citizens ONLY:
    • Right to vote in elections (Lok Sabha & State Assemblies).
    • Right to contest for membership of Parliament & State Legislature.
    • Eligibility to hold certain high public offices (e.g., President, Vice-President, Supreme Court & High Court Judges, Governor, Attorney General, Advocate General).

Modes of Acquisition of Citizenship

Five Modes of Acquisition (Citizenship Act, 1. 1955):

    • By Birth
    • By Descent
    • By Registration
    • By Naturalization
    • By Incorporation of Territory By Birth (Jus Soli): 2.
    • Before July 1, 1987: Any person born in India.
    • July 1, 1987 - Dec 2, 2004: Born in India, if at least one parent is an Indian citizen.
    • Dec 3, 2004 onwards: Born in India, if both parents are Indian citizens OR one parent is an Indian citizen and the other is not an illegal migrant. By Descent (Jus Sanguinis): 3.
    • Jan 26, 1950 - Dec 9, 1992: Born outside India, if father was an Indian citizen at the time of birth.
    • Dec 10, 1992 - Dec 2, 2004: Born outside India, if either parent was an Indian citizen at the time of birth.
    • Dec 3, 2004 onwards: Born outside India, if either parent is an Indian citizen & birth is registered at an Indian consulate within one year of birth. By Registration: 4.
    • Available to Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs), persons married to Indian citizens, minor children of Indian citizens, etc.
    • Applicant must be "ordinarily resident in India for seven years" immediately preceding the application. By Naturalization: 5.
    • Available to foreigners (who are not illegal migrants).
    • Requires "ordinarily resident in India for twelve years" (11 years in aggregate + 1 year immediately preceding application).
    • Government may waive conditions for exceptional service to science, philosophy, art, world peace, or human progress.
    • Illegal migrants cannot acquire Indian citizenship by naturalization. By Incorporation of Territory: 6.
    • If any foreign territory becomes part of India, the Government of India notifies the persons who shall be citizens of India. Not Modes of Acquiring Indian Citizenship: 7.
    • Exercising right to vote.
    • Ethnic identity.
    • Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) (it's a status, not primary Indian citizenship acquisition).
    • Illegal migrant status does not allow for citizenship acquisition via naturalization or other means.

Modes of Loss of Citizenship

  • Loss of Indian Citizenship is governed by The Citizenship Act, 1955.
  • Three modes of losing Indian citizenship: Renunciation, Termination, and Deprivation.
  • Renunciation: Voluntary declaration by an Indian citizen (of full age and capacity) to give up Indian citizenship.
  • Renunciation is not registered if India is engaged in a war.
  • Minor children of a person who renounces citizenship also lose it, but can resume Indian citizenship upon attaining 18 years.
  • Termination: Occurs automatically when an Indian citizen voluntarily acquires the citizenship of another country.
  • Indian Constitution does not allow dual citizenship.
  • Deprivation: Compulsory termination of citizenship by the Central Government.
  • Grounds for Deprivation (primarily for citizens by registration, naturalization, or obtained by fraud):
  • 1. Citizenship obtained by fraud, false representation, or concealment of material facts.
  • 2. Showing disloyalty to the Constitution of India.
  • 3. Unlawfully trading or communicating with the enemy during a war.
  • 4. Within five years of registration or naturalization, being imprisoned in any country for two years or more.
  • 5. Being ordinarily resident out of India for seven years continuously.
  • Marriage to a foreign national does not automatically result in loss of Indian citizenship.
  • Mere criticism of the government does not lead to loss of citizenship.

National Register of Citizens (NRC) and its implications

  • National Register of Citizens (NRC):
  • A register aimed at identifying legal Indian citizens and detecting illegal immigrants.
  • Assam NRC: Specific to the state of Assam.
  • Has its roots in the Assam Accord of 1985.
  • Updated as per the Citizenship Act, 1955 and the Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003.
  • Cut-off date for Assam NRC: March 24, 1971. Includes persons whose names appear in electoral rolls up to this date and their descendants.
  • The final list for the Assam NRC has been published.
  • There is no standalone National Register for Citizens Act, 1971.
  • No nationwide NRC currently exists as a draft, bill, or act.
  • National Population Register (NPR):
  • A register of all usual residents of the country, whether citizens or non-citizens.
  • Prepared under The Citizenship Act, 1955 (specifically Section 14A) and the Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003.
  • Comes under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • Includes certain demographic particulars for every usual resident.
  • It is the first step towards the creation of a National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC).
  • Section 14A of The Citizenship Act, 1955:
  • Inserted by the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003 (not 2019).
  • States that the Central Government may (not 'shall' compulsorily) register every citizen of India.
  • Empowers the Central Government to maintain a National Register of Indian Citizens (NRIC).
  • Enables the Central Government to establish a National Registration Authority.
  • Enables the issuance of National Identity Cards to citizens of India.

Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Scheme

  • The category of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) was initially introduced through the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003.
  • The OCI scheme was made operational and expanded in scope via the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2005.
  • It provides a special status, often referred to as "de-facto dual citizenship", but is not full Indian citizenship.
  • The OCI card scheme was merged with the Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card scheme in 2015 (Citizenship Amendment Act, 2015) to create a single OCI card.
  • Eligibility: A person of Indian origin who is a citizen of another country (excluding Pakistan and Bangladesh). Specific criteria include eligibility for Indian citizenship on

being a child/grandchild/great-grandchild of such a person, or a spouse of an Indian citizen/OCI.

  • Benefits/Entitlements of OCI cardholders:
    • Multiple-entry, multi-purpose, lifelong visa for visiting India.
    • Exemption from reporting to police authorities for any length of stay in India.
    • Parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in financial, economic, and educational fields (except regarding agricultural or plantation properties).
    • Can acquire non-agricultural or nonplantation immovable properties in India.
    • Parity with Indian nationals in matters of inter-country adoption of Indian children.
    • Parity with domestic visitors regarding entry fees to national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, national monuments, etc.
  • Restrictions/Non-Entitlements of OCI cardholders:
    • No voting rights.
    • Cannot hold constitutional public offices (e.g., President, Vice-President, Judge of Supreme Court/High Court).
    • Cannot be elected to Parliament or State Legislative Assembly/Council.
    • No right to government employment.
    • Cannot acquire agricultural or plantation properties.
    • Requires a special permit for certain activities (e.g., research, missionary work, mountaineering, journalism) and to visit Protected/Restricted/ Cantonment areas.
  • Distinction:
    • Non-Resident Indian (NRI): An Indian citizen who is ordinarily residing outside India and holds an Indian passport.
    • Person of Indian Origin (PIO) (pre-2015 merger): A person who or any of whose ancestors was an Indian National and who is presently holding another country's nationality and a foreign passport.
    • Overseas Citizen of India (OCI): A foreign citizen registered as an OCI cardholder under the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Rights available exclusively to Citizens

  • Citizens exclusively possess all civil and political rights in the State.
  • Specific Fundamental Rights available exclusively to Citizens:
    • Article 15: Prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
    • Article 16: Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.
    • Article 19: Six rights regarding freedom of speech, assembly, association, movement, residence, and profession.
    • Article 29: Protection of language, script, and culture of minorities.
    • Article 30: Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions.
  • Political Rights available exclusively to Citizens:
    • Right to vote in elections for Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly.
    • Right to contest elections for Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly.
    • Eligibility to hold certain public offices (e.g., President, Vice-President, Judge of SC/HC, Governor, Attorney General).
  • Aliens (both friendly and enemy) do not enjoy the rights mentioned in Articles 15, 16, 19, 29, 30, nor any political rights.
  • Disqualifications for voting in elections (under Representation of the People Act, 1951):
    • Unsoundness of mind (declared by a competent court).
    • Corrupt practices, illegal practices, or electoral offences.
    • Conviction for certain crimes resulting in imprisonment.
    • Persons in lawful detention or serving a sentence of imprisonment generally cannot vote (e.g., prisoners).
  • Overseas electors (NRIs) are eligible to vote in general elections if registered in the electoral roll of their constituency and are present in person at the polling booth on election day.
  • Serving government officials (e.g., IPS officers) are eligible to vote if registered in the electoral roll and not otherwise disqualified.

Single Citizenship: Concept and Implications

  • India adopts the system of Single Citizenship.
  • Single Citizenship means allegiance only to the Union of India, not to individual states.
  • This concept is borrowed from the Constitution of the United Kingdom (Britain).
  • Unlike the USA, which has dual citizenship (federal and state citizenship).
  • Provides uniform rights and privileges to all citizens across the country.

15. Fundamental Rights

Practice MCQs: The Citizenship

Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA): Provisions and Controversies

  1. What is the purpose of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019?

    Asked in: BPSC Prelims Exam 67th Cancelled

    1. To remove Bangladeshi illegal immigrants
    2. To identify genuine Indian citizens
    3. To check border infiltration by foreigners
    4. To grant citizenship to persecuted minority groups of Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan
    Show answer

    Answer: D. To grant citizenship to persecuted minority groups of Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan

    The Act aims to provide a pathway to citizenship for these specific groups who fled religious persecution in these three neighbouring countries.

  2. Which of the following areas has been exempted from the purview of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 ?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2024

    1. Ladakh
    2. Jammu and Kashmir
    3. The Sixth Schedule Areas
    4. The Fifth Schedule Areas
    Show answer

    Answer: C. The Sixth Schedule Areas

    The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 contains specific provisions for exemption. Section 6 of the Act states that nothing in this section shall apply to the tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram as included in the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution, and the area covered under 'The Inner Line' notified under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873. Therefore, the Sixth Schedule areas are explicitly exempted from the purview of the CAA 2019.

  3. Which of the following statements about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019 are true? 1. Citizenship will be granted to all the foreigners who lived in India for more than six years. 2. Citizenship to members of Hindus, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi or Christian communities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan who entered India on or before 31 Dec, 2014. 3. Members of specific communities will be granted citizenship within 6 years instead of 12 years. 4. The CAA will help to the preparation of National Register of Citizens.

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2022

    1. 1 and 2 are true
    2. 2 and 4 are true
    3. 3 and 4 are true
    4. 2 and 3 are true
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 2 and 3 are true

    - The CAA 2019 applies to specific religious minority communities (Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, Christian) from three specific countries (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan). - The entry date cut-off is 31st December 2014. - The minimum residency requirement for naturalisation is reduced to 5 years for these groups.

  4. Consider the following statements regarding 'The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019': (i) It was notified on 12th December, 2019. (ii) It came into force w.e.f. 4th January, 2020. (iii) The Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2024, were notified on 11th April, 2024 to grant Indian citizenship to eligible persons under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019. Which of the statement/s given above is/are correct ? and (ii) - Question not attempted

    Asked in: Deputy Jailor 2024

    1. Only (i)
    2. Only (i) and (ii)
    3. Only (ii) and (iii)
    4. (i), (ii) and (iii)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Only (ii) and (iii)

    The question tests factual recall about the dates associated with the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, and its subsequent rules. The key point is to accurately recall the notification date of the Act, its commencement date, and the notification date of the Rules. However, the question contains factual inaccuracies in the dates provided for statements (ii) and (iii). Assuming the provided answer C is correct, it implies a specific, possibly erroneous, set of facts was intended by the question setter.

  5. Illegal migrants from which one of the following country are not eligible for Indian citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 ?

    Asked in: Jail Warders Exam 2022

    1. Afghanistan
    2. Sri Lanka
    3. Bangladesh
    4. Pakistan
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Sri Lanka

    The CAA, 2019 specifically lists Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan as the countries from which migrants are eligible, provided they meet other criteria and belong to the specified religious communities.

  6. In which year the Citizenship Amendment Bill was passed by the Parliament ?

    Asked in: State Engineering Service Examination 2021

    1. 2019
    2. 2020
    3. 2014
    4. 2016
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 2019

    The Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019, aims to grant Indian citizenship to religious minorities (excluding Muslims) from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who have entered India before December 31, 2014.

Citizenship Act, 1955: Main Features

  1. The Citizenship Act, 1955 deals with the determination of citizenship on or after

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 1 2023

    1. 26th January, 1950
    2. 26th November, 1949
    3. 15th August, 1947
    4. 14th August, 1947
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 26th January, 1950

    - The Citizenship Act, 1955 regulates the acquisition and loss of Indian citizenship after the Constitution came into effect. - The Constitution (Articles 5-11) dealt with citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution (Jan 26, 1950).

  2. The Government of India issued the citizenship (Pondicherry) order in the year

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2019

    1. 1962
    2. 1964
    3. 1969
    4. 1967
    Show answer

    Answer: B. 1964

    This order specified that persons who were residents of the territories comprising Pondicherry on the date of the treaty of cession coming into force (August 16, 1962) would become citizens of India unless they opted for French citizenship.

  3. Who/which of the following is competent of prescribe conditions for acquisition of citizentship?

    Asked in: UPPSC Upper Mains 2013

    1. Election Commission
    2. President
    3. Parliament and State Legislatures Jointly
    4. Parliament
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Parliament

    Article 11 of the Constitution of India explicitly grants the power to regulate the right of citizenship by law to the Parliament. It states that nothing in the foregoing provisions of this Part shall derogate from the power of Parliament to make any provision with respect to the acquisition and termination of citizenship and all other matters relating to citizenship.

  4. Consider the following statements and identify the correct statement(s) from the codes given below : (i) A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court, in a majority judgement of 4:1, recently upheld the constitutionality of the Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955. (ii) The Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955 which traces its roots to the political solution of Assam Accord of 1985, mandates that immigrants who entered Assam from Bangladesh (erstwhile East Pakistan) prior to January 1, 1966 would be deemed to be Indian citizen. (iii) Those who entered the State of Assam between January 1, 1966 and March 25, 1971 would be conferred citizenship based on the fulfilment of specific procedure and conditions. (iv) The Section, however, barred citizenship to those who entered Assam after March 25, 1971. Codes :

    Asked in: EI GS T&TR Transport Deptt 2702 2025

    1. (i) only
    2. (i) and (ii) only
    3. (i), (ii) and (iii) only
    4. All statements are correct
    Show answer

    Answer: D. All statements are correct

    EI GS T&TR Transport Deptt 2702-2025 Section 6A of the Citizenship Act, 1955, is a special provision related to the citizenship of persons who have migrated to Assam from Bangladesh. It was enacted to implement the Assam Accord of 1985.

Citizenship and Domicile: Distinction

  1. In a Modern Democratic state, citizenship is a

    Asked in: TNPSC CS Prelims 2022

    1. Natural right
    2. Legal Right
    3. Statutory right
    4. Fundamental right
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Statutory right

    - Citizenship is a status conferred and regulated by the law (statute) of a state, not an inherent natural right that everyone possesses universally. - While citizenship may grant access to fundamental rights and other legal rights, the status of citizenship itself is defined and granted through legislative action (statute). - The Constitution of India provides for citizenship, and the detailed provisions regarding the acquisition and termination of citizenship are laid down in the Citizenship Act, 1955, which is a statute.

  2. Consider the following statements : 1. Aadhaar card can be used as a proof of citizenship or domicile. 2. Once issued, Aadhaar number cannot be deactivated or omitted by the Issuing Authority. Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2018

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Neither 1 nor 2

    Aadhaar is intended as a proof of identity based on residency, not proof of citizenship or domicile. The issuing authority (UIDAI) does have provisions under certain circumstances to deactivate or omit an Aadhaar number.

Constitutional Provisions (Articles 5-11)

  1. Which Article of the Indian Constitution has empowerd the parliament to regulate citizenship matters ?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2013

    1. 5
    2. 6
    3. 8
    4. 11
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 11

    Article 11 is the specific constitutional provision that vests the power to regulate citizenship matters in the Parliament of India.

  2. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act falls under which one of the following Parts of the Constitution of India?

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2020

    1. Part I
    2. Part II
    3. Part IV
    4. Part VI
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Part II

    - Part II of the Constitution of India (Articles 5 to 11) deals with the provisions relating to citizenship of India. - Article 11 specifically grants Parliament the power to make any provision with respect to the acquisition and termination of citizenship and all other matters relating to citizenship. - Laws such as the Citizenship Act, 1955, and its subsequent amendments, including the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, are enacted by Parliament under the authority granted by Article 11.

  3. Who among the following has the exclusive power of determining the issue of citizenship in India ?

    Asked in: CGPSC Prelims Exam 2013

    1. The Court
    2. The President
    3. Lok Sabha
    4. Central Government
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Central Government

    The Central Government is vested with the exclusive power to determine issues of citizenship as per the Citizenship Act, 1955, enacted by Parliament.

  4. At the commencement of the Constitution of India, every person shall be a citizen of India who has his domicile in the territory of India and ......................................

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2018

    1. Who was born in the territory of India.
    2. Either of whose parents was born in the territory of India.
    3. Who has been ordinarily residing in the territ‐ ory of India for not less than five years immedi‐ ately preceding such commencement.
    4. All of the above.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. All of the above.

    Article 5 lays down the criteria for citizenship at the commencement of the Indian Constitution, based on domicile combined with birth, parent's birth, or ordinary residence in India.

  5. In which Part of the Constitution of India we find the provisions relating to citizenship?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2018

    1. Part I
    2. Part II
    3. Part VII
    4. Part IX
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Part II

    Part II of the Constitution of India deals with citizenship, covering Articles 5 to 11.

  6. Which Articles of Indian Constitution are related to citizenship?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2020

    1. Article 3 to 10
    2. Article 4 to 11
    3. Article 5 to 11
    4. Article 6 to 11
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Article 5 to 11

    - Part II of the Constitution: Citizenship. - Articles 5-11 cover various aspects of citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution and the power of Parliament regarding citizenship laws. - Article 5: Citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution. - Article 11: Parliament to regulate the right of citizenship by law.

  7. Which one of the following parts of the Constitution of India deals with the provisions relating to citizenship ?

    Asked in: UPSC Combined Section Officer 2024

    1. Part II
    2. Part IV
    3. Part V
    4. Part VI
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Part II

    Part II of the Constitution of India, comprising Articles 5 to 11, deals with provisions relating to citizenship.

  8. Articles 5 - 11 of the Indian Constitution deals with

    Asked in: APPSC Miscellaneous 2023

    1. Fundamental Rights
    2. Union and its Territory
    3. Citizenship
    4. Fundamental Duties
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Citizenship

    - Articles 5-11 are grouped under Part II of the Constitution. - Part I (Articles 1-4) deals with The Union and its Territory. - Part III (Articles 12-35) deals with Fundamental Rights. - Part IVA (Article 51A) deals with Fundamental Duties.

  9. Which part of the Constitution of India describes citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution?

    Asked in: WBCS Main Paper 5 2021 · WBCS Main Paper 5 2023

    1. Part I
    2. Part II
    3. Part III
    4. Part IV
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Part II

    Part II of the Constitution of India, specifically Articles 5 to 11, deals with citizenship. These articles describe who were considered citizens of India at the commencement of the Constitution (Article 5), the rights of migrants from Pakistan (Articles 6 and 7), persons of Indian origin residing outside India (Article 8), and address other related matters concerning citizenship.

Distinction between Citizens, Aliens, and Refugees

  1. A citizen of Canada residing in India cannot claim the right to:

    Asked in: District Statistical Officer Assistant Director 2025

    1. Equality before the law
    2. Freedom of speech and expression
    3. Freedom of religion
    4. Protection against arrest and detention in certain cases
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Freedom of speech and expression

    Fundamental Rights guaranteed under Part III of the Indian Constitution are generally available to all persons, including citizens and non-citizens, unless they are specifically restricted to citizens. However, rights like freedom of speech and expression (Article 19) are exclusively available to citizens of India.

Modes of Acquisition of Citizenship

  1. Which of the following methods is not provided by the Citizenship Act, 1955 to acquire Indian Citizenship?

    Asked in: APSC CCE Prelims Exam 2011

    1. By birth
    2. By descent
    3. By registration
    4. By exercising right to vote
    Show answer

    Answer: D. By exercising right to vote

    Exercising the right to vote is not a method of acquiring Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Act, 1955.

  2. Which of the following is not a criterion for acquiring citizenship of India, subject to other conditions ?

    Asked in: APPSC Group 1 Prelims 2016

    1. Naturalization
    2. Birth
    3. Registration
    4. Ethnic Identity
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Ethnic Identity

    Indian citizenship can be acquired through Birth, Descent, Registration, Naturalisation, or Incorporation of Territory, but not based on Ethnic Identity.

  3. How many years a person of Indian origin has to spend to become citizen of India under the Citizenship Act, 1955 ?

    Asked in: CGPSC Prelims Exam 2013

    1. 5 years
    2. 3 years
    3. 7 years
    4. 9 years
    Show answer

    Answer: C. 7 years

    A person of Indian origin must ordinarily reside in India for seven years to be eligible for citizenship by registration under the Citizenship Act, 1955.

  4. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct regarding Indian citizenship?

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2022

    1. A child born to foreign parents, on the soil of India is eligible for citizenship of India on the basis of the principle of jus soli.
    2. This option seems to be missing from the original text.
    3. Both (A) and (B)
    4. Neither (A) nor (B)
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Neither (A) nor (B)

    - India follows a modified principle of jus soli (citizenship by place of birth) and jus sanguinis (citizenship by descent), not pure jus soli. - The conditions for citizenship by birth in India have been tightened over the years, requiring at least one parent (and stricter conditions after 2004) to be an Indian citizen. - Birth on Indian soil to foreign parents alone is not sufficient for citizenship under current law.

  5. Which of the following are the ways of acquiring citizenship of India ? (1) Birth (2) Descent (3) Incorporational of Territory (4) Naturalization Select the correct answer from the codes given below : Codes :-

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2013

    1. (1) only
    2. (1) and (2)
    3. (1), (2) and (4)
    4. (1), (2), (3) and (4)
    Show answer

    Answer: D. (1), (2), (3) and (4)

    The Citizenship Act, 1955, provides for various modes of acquiring Indian citizenship.

  6. Which of the following are the ways of acquiring citizenship of India? Birth Descent Acquisition/Incorporation of territory Naturalisation Choose the correct answer using the codes given below:

    Asked in: HPPSC HPAS Prelims 2013

    1. Only (1)
    2. (1) and (2)
    3. (1), (2) and (4)
    4. (1), (2), (3) and (4)
    Show answer

    Answer: D. (1), (2), (3) and (4)

    The Citizenship Act, 1955, and subsequent amendments outline the various processes by which a person can become a citizen of India.

  7. Which one of the following is not one of the modes of acquisition of citizenship under the Citizenship Act, 1955 ?

    Asked in: UPSC CISF AC EXE 2017

    1. Descent
    2. Registration
    3. Incorporation of territory
    4. Overseas citizenship/dual citizenship
    Show answer

    Answer: D. Overseas citizenship/dual citizenship

    - Indian citizenship can be acquired after the commencement of the Constitution (Jan 26, 1950) through the mechanisms specified in the Citizenship Act, 1955. - The Constitution (Part II, Articles 5 to 11) deals with citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution and grants Parliament the power to regulate the right of citizenship.

  8. Which of the following statements relating to the citizenship of India is/are correct? A person born outside India on or after January 26, 1950, but before 10th day of December 1992, if his/her father is a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth shall be a citizen of India by descent. A foreigner who is being illegal migrant can acquire Indian citizenship on application for naturalization to the Government of India. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    Asked in: UPSC SO Steno 2017

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. Both 1 and 2
    4. Neither 1 nor 2
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 1 only

    Statement 2 is incorrect. The Citizenship Act, 1955, explicitly prohibits "illegal migrants" from acquiring Indian citizenship by naturalization. While the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 created a special pathway for specific categories of illegal migrants from certain countries to become citizens, this is not through the general process of naturalization under Section 6 of the Act, and the statement is a broad generalization that is incorrect under the existing citizenship law framework for illegal migrants.

  9. Under the Citizenship Act, 1955, by which of the following ways can a person become a citizen of India ? 1. By birth 2. By descent 3. By registration 4. By nationalization 5. By incorporation of territory Select the correct answer using the codes given below : Codes : [A] 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 [B] 1 and 5 only [C] 1, 2, 3 and 5 only [D] 3, 4 and 5 only

    Asked in: ASCO 2014

    1. [A] 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5
    2. [B] 1 and 5 only
    3. [C] 1, 2, 3 and 5 only
    4. [D] 3, 4 and 5 only
    Show answer

    Answer: C. [C] 1, 2, 3 and 5 only

    HORTICULTURE DEVELOPMENT OF‐ FICER(HDO) -2015 The Citizenship Act, 1955, outlines five primary ways for a person to acquire Indian citizenship: 1. By Birth Persons born in India. 2. By Descent Persons born outside India to Indian parents. 3. By Registration Persons who are eligible can register themselves as Indian citizens. 4. By Naturalisation Foreigners who meet certain conditions can become Indian citizens. 5. By Incorporation of Territory When a new territory becomes part of India, its inhabitants can be considered Indian citizens.Option [A] lists all five. Option [C] lists 1, 2, 3, and 5, excluding "by nationalization" (which is likely a misstatement of "by naturalisation"). If the intended answer is [C], it implies that "by nationalization" is either not considered a distinct method or is an error in the question.

Modes of Loss of Citizenship

  1. A citizen of India will lose his or her citizenship if he or she 1. renounces Indian citizenship 2. voluntarily acquires the citizenship of another country 3. marries a citizen of another country 4. criticizes the Government Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 2 2016

    1. 1, 2 and 3
    2. 2, 3 and 4
    3. 1 and 2 only
    4. 1 and 4
    Show answer

    Answer: C. 1 and 2 only

    - The Citizenship Act, 1955, prescribes three ways of losing Indian citizenship: Renunciation, Termination, and Deprivation. - Renunciation (Section 8): Any citizen of India of full age and capacity can declare his wish to renounce his Indian citizenship. (Point 1 is correct). - Termination (Section 9): Indian citizenship is automatically terminated if a citizen voluntarily acquires the citizenship of another country. India does not allow dual citizenship. (Point 2 is correct). - Marrying a citizen of another country does not automatically lead to the loss of Indian citizenship. The Indian citizen retains their citizenship unless they choose to acquire the citizenship of their spouse's country (which would then fall under Termination). (Point 3 is incorrect). - Criticizing the Government is a fundamental right (freedom of speech and expression) and does not lead to the loss of citizenship. Deprivation of citizenship by the government is possible only under very specific circumstances (e.g., disloyalty to the Constitution, unlawfully trading with enemy during war, obtaining citizenship by fraud, continuous residence outside India for seven years without registration), none of which include mere criticism. (Point 4 is incorrect).

  2. A person will lose his citizenship if

    Asked in: CGPSC Prelims Exam 2012

    1. he voluntarily surrenders his citizenship
    2. the Government withdraws his citizenship
    3. he voluntarily accepts citizenship of another country
    4. All of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: D. All of the above

    Voluntarily surrendering citizenship (Renunciation), voluntarily accepting citizenship of another country (Termination), and deprivation by the government under specific circumstances are all valid grounds for losing Indian citizenship.

  3. Which of the following statements are correct regarding compulsory termination of Indian Citizenship by the Central Government? 1. The citizen has shown disloyalty to the Constitution of India. 2. The citizen has unlawfully traded or communicated with the enemy during war. 3. The citizen has, within five years after registration or naturalization, been imprisoned in any country for two years. 4. The citizen has been ordinarily resident out of India for two years continuously.

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2021

    1. 1, 2, 3 and 4
    2. 2, 3 and 4 only
    3. 1 and 2 only
    4. 1, 2 and 3 only
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3 only

    - Statement 1 is correct. If a citizen has shown disloyalty to the Constitution of India by act or speech, the Central Government can deprive him/ her of citizenship (Section 10(1)(a) of the Citizenship Act, 1955). - Statement 2 is correct. If the citizen has unlawfully traded or communicated with the enemy during war, the Central Government can deprive him/her of citizenship (Section 10(1)(b)). - Statement 3 is correct. If the citizen has, within five years after registration or naturalisation, been imprisoned in any country for two years, the Central Government can deprive him/her of citizenship (Section 10(1)(d)). - Statement 4 is incorrect. Citizenship can be terminated if the citizen has been ordinarily resident out of India for seven years continuously (Section 10(1)(c)), not two years.

  4. Indian citizenship of a person can be terminated if

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2023

    1. A person voluntary acquire the citizenship of some other country.
    2. A person who has become a citizen through re‐ gistration is sentenced to imprisonment for 18 months within five years of his registration.
    3. The government of India is satisfied that citizenship was obtained by fraud.
    4. A person has shown disloyalty to the Constitution of India.
    Show answer

    Answer: B. A person who has become a citizen through re‐ gistration is sentenced to imprisonment for 18 months within five years of his registration.

    The Citizenship Act, 1955, provides for the acquisition and termination of Indian citizenship. Termination can occur through renunciation, acquisition of foreign citizenship, or deprivation by the government on specific grounds like fraud, disloyalty, or conviction for a significant period shortly after acquiring citizenship by registration or naturalisation.

  5. If an Indian citizen settles in another country, can he obtain citizenship of that country while retaining the Indian citizenship ?

    Asked in: APPSC Panchayat secretary Prelims 2016

    1. No
    2. Yes
    3. Depends on the country
    4. Government can grant permission
    Show answer

    Answer: A. No

    India follows the principle of single citizenship. Acquiring foreign citizenship automatically results in the loss of Indian citizenship.

  6. The process of surrendering Indian citizenship after acquiring foreign citizenship is known as (a) Naturalisation (b) Renunciation (c) Termination (d) Deprivation

    Asked in: ro aro 2024

    1. Naturalisation
    2. Renunciation
    3. Termination
    4. Deprivation
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Renunciation

    The Citizenship Act, 1955, outlines the various ways by which citizenship can be acquired and lost. Renunciation is one of the primary methods of losing Indian citizenship.

National Register of Citizens (NRC) and its implications

  1. Which of the following statements are correct regarding National Population Register (NPR)? 1. It is prepared under The Citizenship Act, 1955. 2. NPR comes under the Ministry Of Home Affairs. 3. It includes certain demographic particulars.

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2019

    1. 1 and 3
    2. 1 and 2
    3. 2 and 3
    4. 1, 2 and 3
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 1, 2 and 3

    NPR is a register of usual residents of India, distinct from the National Register of Citizens (NRC), which is for Indian citizens.

  2. Which of the following statements is IN‐ CORRECT regarding the national register for citizens?

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2021

    1. The NRC has its roots in the Assam Accord signed between the Assam State Students Union and the Government of India in 1985.
    2. The National Register of Citizens is a list of all the legal citizens of Assam.
    3. The NRC includes person whose names ap‐ pear in any of the electoral rolls up to March, 1971 and their descendants.
    4. The NRC is governed by the National Register for Citizens Act, 1971.
    Show answer

    Answer: D. The NRC is governed by the National Register for Citizens Act, 1971.

    - Statement A is correct: The update of the 1951 NRC in Assam is directly linked to the Assam Accord signed in 1985, which aimed to address the issue of illegal immigrants. - Statement B is correct: The National Register of Citizens is essentially a register containing names of all genuine Indian citizens residing in Assam, as per the defined criteria. - Statement C is correct: The criteria for inclusion in the Assam NRC update largely revolved around establishing presence in Assam up to the midnight of March 24, 1971, and their descendants. - Statement D is incorrect: The NRC process and provisions for registration of citizens are primarily governed by the Citizenship Act, 1955, and the Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003, as amended. While 1971 is a significant cutoff date, there isn't an Act specifically called "National Register for Citizens Act, 1971".

  3. NRC is now in form of a

    Asked in: WBPSC CS Prelims 2021

    1. Draft
    2. Bill
    3. Act
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Draft

    The NRC process involves publishing a preliminary list known as the 'Draft NRC'.

  4. Regarding Section 14(A) of the Citizenship Act, 1955, which of the following statements is/ are not correct? I. Section 14(A) was added in the year 2019 by amending the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019. II. The Section states that Centre shall establish a National Registration Authority by maintaining a National Register of Indian Citizens. III. The Section also states that Centre shall register every citizen of India compulsorily and issue a National Identity Card. Select the correct answer using the codes given below.

    Asked in: GS AE PHE 28 2023 1406 2024

    1. I only
    2. II only
    3. III only
    4. I, II and III
    Show answer

    Answer: D. I, II and III

    This question tests the understanding of specific legal amendments related to citizenship in India, particularly the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and related provisions.

Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Scheme

  1. The category of ‘Overseas Citizens of India’ was entered in the Citizenship Act of India through an amendment in the year :

    Asked in: UPSC CDS 1 2016

    1. 1986
    2. 1992
    3. 1996
    4. 2003
    Show answer

    Answer: D. 2003

    The category of 'Overseas Citizens of India' (OCI) was introduced in the Citizenship Act, 1955 through the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003. This was based on the recommendations of the High Level Committee on Indian Diaspora headed by L.M. Singhvi. The OCI scheme initially provided certain benefits to Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) from specific countries, excluding Pakistan and Bangladesh.

  2. Which of the following is introduced by the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2005 ?

    Asked in: GPSC Prelims CSP 1 2017

    1. Dual Citizenship
    2. Multiple Citizenship
    3. Overseas Citizenship
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Overseas Citizenship

    The 2005 amendment introduced the Overseas Citizenship of India scheme.

  3. Which of the following statements is/are incorrect?

    Asked in: KPSC KAS Prelims 2024

    1. Non-Resident Indian (NRI) is an Indi‐ an citizen who is ordinarily residing out‐ side India and holds an Indian passport.
    2. Person of Indian Origin (PIO) is a per‐ son who or any of the ancestors was an Indian National and who is presently holding another country nationality and holding foreign passport.
    3. Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) is a person registered as OCI cardholder un‐ der the Citizenship Act, 1955. It will be headed by retired IAS officer Mohamed Sanaulla.
    4. OCI and NRIs can visit India without a visa for life long. A. Only one statement is wrong B. Only two statements are wrong C. Only three statements are wrong D. None of the statements are wrong
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Non-Resident Indian (NRI) is an Indi‐ an citizen who is ordinarily residing out‐ side India and holds an Indian passport.

    NRI: Indian citizen residing abroad. PIO: Person of Indian origin with foreign citizenship (PIO card scheme merged with OCI). OCI: Foreign citizen of Indian origin (or spouse of OCI/Indian citizen) registered under Citizenship Act. OCI holders get lifelong visa-free travel. NRIs travel on Indian passports.

  4. Overseas citizens of India (as per Overseas Citizenship of India Scheme as operational from December 2005) shall not be entitled to

    Asked in: UPSC CAPF 2012

    1. multiple entry, multipurpose lifelong visa to India
    2. exemption from reporting to police authorities for any length of stay in India
    3. parity with NRI's in financial, economic and educational fields except in the question of agri‐ cultural or plantation properties
    4. voting rights in India
    Show answer

    Answer: D. voting rights in India

    The OCI scheme allows persons of Indian origin (excluding those from Pakistan and Bangladesh) to live and work in India indefinitely with specific rights, while retaining their foreign citizenship.

  5. Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) was introduced in which year?

    Asked in: JE(Civil) RWD 2021 22 2021

    1. 2002
    2. 2003
    3. 2004
    4. 2005
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 2002

    The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) scheme was established in 2002.

Rights available exclusively to Citizens

  1. Select the correct statement/s. a. A citizen enjoys all the civil rights in the State. b. A citizen enjoys all the political rights in the State. c. An alien enjoys all the civil rights in the State. d. An alien enjoys all the political rights in the State.

    Asked in: MPSC CS Prelims 2018

    1. Only a, b and c
    2. Only a, b and d
    3. Only a and b
    4. Only a, c and d
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Only a and b

    Statement 'a' is correct: A citizen enjoys all the civil rights in the State. While civil rights (like freedom of speech, religion, equality before law, personal liberty) are available to citizens, they are subject to reasonable restrictions defined by law. However, in the context of comparing with aliens, citizens enjoy the full range of civil rights applicable within the state. Statement 'b' is correct: A citizen enjoys all the political rights in the State. Political rights (like the right to vote, right to contest elections, right to hold public office) are fundamental rights available exclusively to citizens. Statement 'c' is incorrect: An alien does not enjoy all the civil rights in the State. While aliens are entitled to many civil rights (such as the right to life and personal liberty under Article 21, equality before the law under Article 14), certain fundamental rights are specifically available only to citizens. These include rights under Article 15 (prohibition of discrimination on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth), Article 16 (equality of opportunity in matters of public employment), Article 19 (protection of certain rights regarding freedom of speech, assembly, association, movement, residence, and profession), Article 29 (protection of interests of minorities). Statement 'd' is incorrect: An alien does not enjoy any political rights in the State. Political rights, such as the right to vote or hold public office, are reserved for citizens.

  2. Identify the correct group of grounds on the basis of which a citizen may be disqualified to vote. -

    Asked in: School Lecturer (Sanskrit Edu.) 2022 2 2022

    1. unsoundness of mind, crime, non-residence, bankruptcy
    2. bankruptcy, illegal practice, crime, corrupt practice
    3. crime, corrupt or illegal practice, non-resid‐ ence
    4. corrupt or illegal practice, unsoundness of mind, terrorist activity
    Show answer

    Answer: D. corrupt or illegal practice, unsoundness of mind, terrorist activity

    Electoral laws in India, particularly the Representation of the People Act, 1950 and 1951, outline the conditions under which a person can be disqualified from being included in an electoral roll or from voting. These grounds are aimed at ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

  3. Under prevailing Indian Laws, who amongst the following can vote in the general elections?

    Asked in: ASSISTANT ENGINEER(ELECTRICAL) 2016 · VETERINARY OFFICER(VO) 2020

    1. Person of unstable mental state
    2. Convicted criminals and prisoners
    3. NRI with business interest in India
    4. A serving IPS officer
    Show answer

    Answer: D. A serving IPS officer

    The right to vote in India is a constitutional right subject to specific disqualifications. Mental instability and conviction leading to imprisonment for a certain duration are disqualifications. NRI status does not automatically confer voting rights. Serving IPS officers are eligible to vote.

Single Citizenship: Concept and Implications

  1. With reference to India, consider the following statements : There is only one citizenship and one domicile. A citizen by birth only can become the Head of State. A foreigner once granted the citizenship cannot be deprived of it under any circumstances. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Asked in: UPSC IAS 2021

    1. 1 only
    2. 2 only
    3. 1 and 3
    4. 2 and 3
    Show answer

    Answer: A. 1 only

    - Statement 1 is correct. India has a system of single citizenship for the entire country. While the concept of 'domicile' can be complex and may have regional implications for specific matters, the legal framework primarily recognizes domicile in the country as a whole in the context of citizenship status and fundamental rights. - Statement 2 is incorrect. Article 58 of the Constitution of India lists the qualifications for election as President. It requires the person to be a citizen of India, but it does not specify that the person must be a citizen by birth. A naturalized citizen is also eligible. This requirement exists, for example, for the presidency in the United States, but not in India. - Statement 3 is incorrect. Indian citizenship, once granted to a foreigner through naturalization or registration, can be deprived by the Government of India under specific circumstances mentioned in the Citizenship Act,

  2. These grounds include acquiring citizenship by fraud, disloyalty to the Constitution, unlawfully trading with an enemy during war, or continuous absence from India for seven years. 58. Which one of the following features of citizenship in India is correct?

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 2015

    1. Dual citizenship of the State and Nation.
    2. Single citizenship of a State.
    3. Single citizenship of whole of India.
    4. Dual citizenship of India and another Country.
    Show answer

    Answer: C. Single citizenship of whole of India.

    - The Indian Constitution provides for a single and uniform citizenship for the whole country. - This means an Indian citizen is a citizen of India and not of the constituent states. States do not have separate citizenship. - India does not allow its citizens to simultaneously hold citizenship of another country, although provisions like Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) exist which grant certain rights but not full citizenship.

  3. The citizenship provided by the Constitution of India is :

    Asked in: UPPCS Prelims 1994

    1. Dual citizenship
    2. Single citizenship
    3. Both of the above
    4. None of the above
    Show answer

    Answer: B. Single citizenship

    - The Constitution of India provides for a single citizenship for the entire country. - This means that every Indian citizen is a citizen of India and does not hold separate citizenship of the state they reside in. This promotes unity and integrity of the nation.

  4. The concept of single citizenship is adopted in India from the Constitution of which country? - (1) France - (2) Canada - (3) U.K. - (4) U.S.A.

    Asked in: Junior Legal Officer 2019

    1. (1) and (2)
    2. (3) and (4)
    3. (1) and (3)
    4. (2) and (4)
    Show answer

    Answer: C. (1) and (3)

    India's concept of single citizenship has been adopted from the Constitution of the United Kingdom (U.K.).

  5. The constitution of India has introduced single citizenship on the pattern of

    Asked in: FINANCE AND ACCOUNTS OFFICER(LDCE) 2017

    1. Britain
    2. Canada
    3. USA
    4. Both a and b
    Show answer

    Answer: A. Britain

    India's single citizenship is inspired by the pattern of Britain.