S Jaishankar responds to US Ambassador's CAA statement: 'I uphold principles as well'
PTC News Desk: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed remarks made by US Ambassador Eric Garcetti regarding India's Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), asserting his stance on the matter. The comments came days after the Centre notified the rules for the law, prompting concerns from the US.
Speaking at the India Today Conclave, Jaishankar questioned the understanding of India's history reflected in such remarks, particularly discounting the significance of the Partition of India. He emphasised India's obligation to those who faced persecution and displacement during that time, justifying the CAA's intent to provide expedited citizenship to persecuted non-Muslim minorities from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh.
The US expressed its concerns about the implementation of the CAA, with Ambassador Garcetti highlighting the importance of upholding principles even among close allies. In response, Jaishankar reiterated India's commitment to its principles and historical context, pointing out instances where citizenship was fast-tracked based on ethnicity, faith, or social attributes in other countries.
He cited examples such as the Jackson-Vanik amendment, which facilitated citizenship for Jews from the Soviet Union, as well as instances of fast-tracking citizenship for Hungarians, Cubans, and others in various democracies. Jaishankar underscored the moral obligation India holds towards those affected by historical injustices, particularly minorities promised refuge during the Partition.
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Highlighting the CAA's purpose of aiding persecuted minorities, Jaishankar emphasized that it does not revoke Indian Muslims' citizenship. He dismissed allegations of discrimination and polarisation, reaffirming the government's commitment to inclusive governance.
Amidst criticisms and concerns, Jaishankar's remarks underscore India's perspective on the CAA, emphasizing historical context, moral obligations, and principles of justice.
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(Inputs from agencies)
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