Clear statement of the Ministry of External Affairs – If passport is not a proof of citizenship, then what is the proof of being an Indian? – Buzz

New Delhi. Questions have been continuously raised regarding citizenship certificates in India. First Aadhaar card was not considered as proof of citizenship, then there was doubt on Voter ID also. Now the Ministry of External Affairs has given another big statement and made it clear that even passport is not a proof of Indian citizenship. In such a situation, the question arises that how can an Indian prove his citizenship?

Foreign Ministry said

On the occasion of Passport Seva Diwas, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that passport is only a travel document. It is issued for foreign travel, consular services, and for identification abroad, but cannot be considered conclusive proof of citizenship. The government argues that if it is later discovered that the passport was obtained by giving false information, it can be confiscated or cancelled.

Why is this a contradiction?

This whole matter is complicated because under the Passport Act, 1967, passports can be issued only to Indian citizens. Before releasing it, there is police verification and thorough scrutiny of many documents. Despite this, the government refuses to accept it as final proof of citizenship.

Which documents are not proof of citizenship?

There is no single universal document to prove citizenship in India. The actual status of the documents which people generally consider as proof of citizenship is as follows:

• Aadhar card: Obviously not proof of citizenship, only proof of residence
• Voter ID: Proof of name being registered in voter list, but not conclusive proof of citizenship.
• PAN card: tax ID card only
• Ration Card: Proof of welfare schemes
• Passport: Travel document, not conclusive proof

Then what is the real proof of citizenship?

According to the Home Ministry, Indian citizenship is determined under the Citizenship Act, 1955. Citizenship can be acquired by birth, descent, registration, naturalization or territorial annexation. India never issued any document like ‘National Citizenship Card’. Most Indians, citizens by birth, do not have a separate citizenship certificate. Only those who have acquired citizenship through registration or naturalization are issued a Citizenship Certificate.