195 applicants granted Indian citizenship at Ahmedabad camp

In Gujarat, a special citizenship certification camp organised by the Ahmedabad district administration saw 195 people receive Indian citizenship, in the presence of Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi and Minister of State for Urban Development Darshana Vaghela. The camp included applicants under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) as well as cases previously registered with the Collector’s office. Of the 195 certificates issued, 122 were granted under the CAA, while 73 pertained to long-pending applications on Friday..

Addressing the gathering, Sanghavi said that such a large number of people receiving citizenship together is a rare sight in any other state. “Many who arrived in India years ago after immense suffering have contributed quietly to our nation’s growth. Today is a moment of dignity and security for them,” he said. Sanghavi expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah for amending citizenship rules to protect minorities facing persecution in neighbouring countries. He said the CAA has given thousands of displaced families a chance to rebuild their lives with identity, rights, and pride. He also commended the Ahmedabad district administration for its consistent work, noting that citizenship certificates have been issued here since 2017 with “commendable efficiency and sensitivity.”

Minister Darshana Vaghela congratulated the recipients, saying their long-awaited aspirations were finally being fulfilled. “India embodies the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam. Today, we welcome you into the Indian family,” she said.

Census Director Sujal Mayatra briefed the gathering on provisions of the Citizenship Act, 1955, and the procedures followed under the updated rules. The event was attended by Ahmedabad Mayor Pratibha Jain, MLAs, District Collector Sujit Kumar, District Development Officer Videh Khare, senior officials, social organisations, community representatives, and a large number of citizens.

(Stata Correspondent)