Delhi High Court Rejects Dual Citizenship PIL

The Delhi High Court, led by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan, dismissed a public interest litigation seeking dual citizenship for Indians abroad. The court cited national security and jurisdictional limits, stating that only Parliament could make such a decision. The petitioner argued that dual citizenship could benefit the Indian diaspora.

The Delhi High Court on Wednesday dismissed a public interest litigation (PIL) that sought dual citizenship for Indians residing abroad.

Headed by Acting Chief Justice Manmohan, the bench declared that such decisions fall under the purview of Parliament, attributing the matter to national security concerns and wider ramifications.

Justice Tushar Rao Gedela, part of the bench, supported this view, affirming that the court did not have the jurisdiction to decide on the issue. The petitioner, 'Pravasi Legal Cell,' highlighted how current laws automatically forfeit Indian citizenship upon acquiring another country's passport. Despite arguments that dual citizenship could foster contributions from the Indian diaspora, the court refused to pass any directions, permitting the petitioner to withdraw the plea.

(With inputs from agencies.)