The United States has voiced its apprehension regarding the notification of the Citizenship Amendment Act’s (CAA) rules in India. State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that the US is closely observing the implementation of the act, expressing concern about its potential implications.
“We are concerned about the notification of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act on March 11,” Miller stated during a daily briefing. “We are closely monitoring how this act will be implemented. Respect for religious freedom and equal treatment under the law for all communities are fundamental democratic principles,” he emphasized.
The CAA, enacted by the Bharatiya Janata Party-led Central government, aims to grant citizenship to undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who entered India before December 31, 2014. Its implementation has sparked criticism from opposition leaders, who denounced the notified rules as “unconstitutional”, “discriminatory”, and violative of India’s secular principles.
Critics argue that by excluding Muslims and linking citizenship to religious identity, the CAA undermines the secular foundation of India’s Constitution. However, the government maintains that the CAA is solely focused on granting citizenship and assures that no citizen will lose their status.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed the government’s stance, asserting that the CAA will remain in place and emphasizing the BJP-led government’s commitment to upholding it. Shah criticized opposition parties, stating that while they engage in political rhetoric, the BJP fulfills its promises, including those made by Prime Minister Modi.
