The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has tightened rules for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), introducing stricter provisions for cancellation of OCI registration. As per a recent notification, the government can revoke an OCI card if the holder is sentenced to at least two years in prison or is charge-sheeted for an offence carrying a punishment of seven years or more. This applies regardless of whether the offence occurred in India or abroad, provided it is recognised under Indian law.
MHA Tightens OCI Rules: Cancellation for Serious Criminal Offences
The notification, issued under clause (da) of section 7D of the Citizenship Act, 1955, outlines two specific grounds for cancellation: first, if an OCI cardholder is sentenced to imprisonment for a term of two years or more; and second, if they are formally charge-sheeted for an offence that entails a punishment of seven years or above. According to officials, this change strengthens the government’s authority to act against OCI holders involved in serious crimes.
OCI status allows foreign nationals of Indian origin to visit India without a visa, offering long-term residency and multiple-entry benefits. It grants privileges such as ease of travel, the ability to live and work in India, and access to certain economic opportunities, though it does not provide political rights like voting.
Stricter OCI Rules to Prevent Misuse and Maintain Diaspora Integrity
The move is aimed at tightening the legal framework governing OCI status to prevent its misuse. By introducing these stricter rules, the MHA seeks to ensure that individuals who commit serious offences, whether in India or abroad, cannot continue to enjoy OCI privileges.
The Overseas Citizens of India scheme, introduced in August 2005, is available to those who were Indian citizens on or after January 26, 1950, or were eligible to become citizens on that date. Since its inception, it has been an important link for the Indian diaspora, offering a formalised connection to their country of origin.
Summary:
The MHA has amended OCI rules, allowing cancellation if cardholders face two years’ imprisonment or charges for offences punishable by seven years or more, in India or abroad. Introduced in 2005, the scheme connects the diaspora but now aims to prevent misuse by serious offenders while retaining travel and residency benefits.
