India firmly pushed back against remarks made by the US regarding its Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
The Ministry of External Affairs said concerns raised were “misplaced and misinformed”.
Addressing the media, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said partners should welcome India’s step to help persecuted minorities from neighboring countries seeking refuge. “Well-wishers of India should support our inclusive traditions of aiding those in distress,” he asserted.
He responded after the US State Department expressed concerns over new CAA rules notified in India. However, Jaiswal maintained the Act was an internal matter and in line with India’s long-standing commitment to human rights.
The CAA grants citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan who entered India before 2015, facing religious persecution. Critics argue it undermines India’s secular constitution.
But Jaiswal replied there is no threat to any community.
“Those not fully aware of India’s pluralism should avoid lecturing us on our history and region,” he remarked, in a thinly-veiled retort to the US comments.
The spokesperson further stated vote-bank politics should not influence views on helping persecuted minorities. With India standing its ground, the diplomatic exchange highlights differing perspectives on the contentious issue.
