Indian Citizenship Proof: Even passport, Aadhaar and Voter ID are not proof of citizenship! Know what is the legal proof of being an Indian

Indian Citizenship Proof: Do you have Indian Passport, Aadhar Card and Voter ID? If yes, then it is possible that you consider these as the biggest proof of your citizenship. But after the recent discussion regarding citizenship and passport, this question is again in the headlines as to which document is considered the real legal proof of Indian citizenship.

Actually, identity and citizenship are two different legal subjects. There are many documents that prove your identity, but they are not considered final proof of citizenship.

Is Indian passport the final proof of citizenship?

Generally, Indian passport is issued to Indian citizens only. However legally the main purpose of a passport is international travel and identity verification. This is the reason why it is not considered the final and conclusive proof of citizenship.

What is said in the Passport Act?

Under the Passport Act, 1967, the Central Government is empowered to issue travel documents to certain non-citizen persons under special circumstances. Because of this provision, the passport is not considered final legal proof of citizenship.

What is the role of Aadhar Card and Voter ID?

Aadhaar card is used to establish identity in the country and avail government services. Voter ID is a document showing eligibility to vote in elections. But both the documents are not considered as final proof of citizenship.

Similarly, PAN card is also a document related to income tax and financial functions, and not a citizenship certificate.

What is the real legal proof of Indian citizenship?

determination of indian citizenship Citizenship Act, 1955 Is done under. This law clearly states on what grounds citizenship can be obtained.

Released after completion of legal process Citizenship Certificate Considered as formal and valid proof of citizenship.

Major ways to obtain citizenship in India

• citizenship at birth
• Citizenship on the basis of descent
• Citizenship through registration
• Citizenship through Naturalization
• Citizenship upon merger of any territory with India

Citizenship rules based on birth

In India, the rules of citizenship based on birth have been decided according to different time periods. Most people born in India between 26 January 1950 and 1 July 1987 received citizenship by birth. In later years, citizenship of parents was also made an important basis.

How is citizenship obtained by descent and naturalization?

Children of Indian origin born abroad can obtain citizenship by descent under prescribed conditions. Apart from this, eligible foreign citizens who have resided in India for a prescribed period can also acquire Indian citizenship through the naturalization process.

Why did the debate regarding passport intensify?

After the recent discussions, the question started rising among the people as to why the documents which are used for identification in everyday life are not the final proof of citizenship. Legal experts say that both identity card and citizenship certificate have different roles.

Complete information at a glance

• Passport is primarily a travel document.
• Aadhar card is a document related to identity and government services.
• Voter ID indicates the right to vote.
• PAN card is used for financial and tax related purposes.
• The Citizenship Act, 1955 is the main law determining citizenship.
• Citizenship certificate is considered as formal legal proof of citizenship.