‘Dual citizenship is a challenge in India,’ EAM Jaishankar, but there is alternative. 6 things you need to know

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S Jaishankar acknowledged recently but, ‘debate is still alive’ He, however, highlights that there is an alternative - Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) and calls it ‘a step towards fulfilling the demand for dual citizenship.’ Here is all you need to know about the ongoing debate. Dual or multiple citizenship grants an individual legal status as a citizen of two or more countries simultaneously.

This means they can possess passports from both countries and enjoy social and legal rights equivalent to other citizens. They have the privilege to participate in the political affairs of both countries, obtain visa exemptions for travel, and engage in employment in either nation.

The United States, Finland, Albania, Israel, and Pakistan allow dual citizenships. However, the rules and regulations differ for each country.

The Indian Constitution prohibits dual citizenship for nationals. Speaking about it, Jaishankar recently said, “There are economic and security challenges as to Indians living in which countries should be provided with dual citizenship." India offers the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) program to Persons of Indian Origin (PIO), excluding those who migrated to Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Speaking about it, Jaiishankar pointed out that “OCI is a step towards to bridge the demand, however, the debate on dual citizenship is still alive." An OCI card holder enjoys multiple entry, multi-purpose life-long visa to visit India; Other benefits include exemption from reporting to police authorities for any length of stay in India; and also parity with NRIs in financial, economic and educational fields except in the acquisition of agricultural or plantation properties. -As per the ministry's statement, a foreign