In a recent discourse at the India Today Conclave, Union Home Minister Amit Shah articulated that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) is an integral facet of India, and its populace, regardless of religious affiliation, identifies as Indian nationals. Shah ardently advocated for the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, asserting its purpose to confer Indian citizenship upon persecuted minorities hailing from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan.
Highlighting the territorial inclusion, Shah asserted, “PoK unequivocally belongs to India, and its inhabitants, whether Hindu or Muslim, unequivocally align with our national identity.” Addressing criticisms surrounding the timing of the CAA, Shah emphasized its enactment in 2019, with recent rule implementations.
Shah discerned a paradox in those contesting the CAA on regional grounds while supporting laws akin to the Muslim Personal Law. Referencing historical contexts, Shah recalled assurances made by Congress leaders, including Jawaharlal Nehru, during the Partition, welcoming minorities from Pakistan into India.
Citing demographic shifts, Shah lamented the decline of Hindu, Sikh, and Sikh populations in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan, respectively. He reiterated the fulfillment of Congress’s promises regarding refugee assimilation.
Responding to queries regarding the exclusion of Muslims from the CAA’s ambit, Shah justified the legislation based on the Islamic state declarations of the three nations, positing that Muslims encounter no persecution therein. Shah reassured that the CAA doesn’t jeopardize citizenship and cautioned against opposition-driven misinformation.
Regarding the National Register of Citizens (NRC), Shah deferred discussions until post-election deliberations. Dismissing Rahul Gandhi’s OBC welfare advocacy, Shah underscored the substantial OBC representation within the Union cabinet, rebuffing Gandhi’s alleged oversight.
Foreseeing electoral gains in West Bengal, Shah criticized the Mamata Banerjee-led government for what he deemed as appeasement politics fostering lawlessness and impeding development. He alleged state-sponsored infiltration for political gain, underscoring the need for a governance shift.