Final draft of Citizenship Amendment Act expected by March end: union minister

New Delhi: Union Minister of State for Home Ajay Mishra announced on Sunday that the final draft of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) is likely to be prepared by March 30 next year.

Speaking at an event with the Matua community in Thakurnagar, North 24 Parganas district, Mishra assured that the citizenship rights of the Matuas, who had fled religious persecution in Bangladesh, would not be compromised.

Highlighting the progress made in the implementation of the CAA, Mishra emphasised that ongoing issues were being resolved. He reiterated the assurance that the rights of the Matua community concerning citizenship would remain intact. Mishra also indicated that the final draft of the CAA would be prepared and ready for enforcement by March next year.

The Citizenship (Amendment) Act aims to provide Indian citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians who arrived in India from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan before December 31, 2014.

Responding to Mishra's statement, Trinamool Rajya Sabha MP Santanu Sen criticised the BJP's engagement with the Matua community solely during elections.

Sen expressed skepticism about the BJP's ability to implement the CAA in West Bengal, stating that their claims are recognised as untrue by the Matuas and the populace. He asserted that the upcoming elections would reflect the rejection of the BJP by the people.

Sen highlighted the Trinamool Congress' commitment to safeguarding the rights of the Matuas and assured continued efforts throughout the year. He accused the BJP of making empty promises and pledged ongoing support and action for the community, unlike the BJP's sporadic commitments.