NEW DELHI: Earlier this week, the Madhya Pradesh government granted Indian citizenship certificates to the first three applicants under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019 in the state. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav personally handed over the citizenship certificates to two Pakistani applicants, Sameer Melwani (12) and Sanjana Melwani (18), as well as one Bangladeshi applicant, Rakhi Das, in the state capital of Bhopal.
During the certificate issuance event, Chief Minister Yadav remarked that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has addressed this challenge, emphasising a connection that underscores India’s unity. Yadav stated, “In 1947, our Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Christian, and Parsi brethren faced significant hardships in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Despite their roots in undivided India, they were considered foreigners there. Under the CAA, the Modi government has now ensured their security and provided them with the opportunity to safeguard their faith by coming to India.” Speaking at the event, CM Yadav added, “Two new generations are now becoming essential to our nation’s future. This is a moment of celebration, and we extend a warm welcome to Bangladeshi women and others who have received Indian citizenship certificates.” He emphasised, “Those who have received Indian citizenship certificates were residents of neighbouring countries that were once part of ‘Akhand Bharat’. The state government extends a hearty welcome to them, permitting them to reside here as Indian citizens.” Additionally, he assured, “You will receive complete assistance and support from the administration and the government.”
Rakhi Das, a Bangladeshi applicant, expressed her joy upon receiving her Indian citizenship certificate. Having arrived in Bhopal from Bangladesh eight years ago to pursue her studies, she remarked, “It’s a wonderful thing for me to have obtained Indian citizenship. Now, I can appear for exams and seek employment opportunities in government jobs here. I came to India from Bangladesh to pursue a PhD, and I am extremely happy now.” Das also highlighted, “Everything is fine in Bangladesh, but there are challenges for Hindu women. The freedom I have found here in India for studying and pursuing a career is something I didn’t experience in Bangladesh.”
On May 15, 2024, the Union Home Secretary presented the initial batch of citizenship certificates to applicants in New Delhi, following the notification of the Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2024, on March 11, 2024.