Six Bangladeshi Hindu Families Apply for Indian Citizenship Under CAA, Cite Persecution in Bangladesh

In Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, six Bangladeshi Hindu families have applied for Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), claiming they were persecuted in Bangladesh. The district-level CAA committee reviewed their applications but asked them to submit proper documentation before the next hearing.

CAA Applications Submitted Amid Incomplete Documents

The families appeared before the district-level committee on Tuesday evening at the Chandausi police station area. While initially six families were reported, some later sources mentioned five families attended. Their applications were incomplete, with several essential documents missing. The committee allowed them another opportunity to provide valid proof of Bangladeshi origin and rescheduled their appearance.

The development sparked intense discussions in Chandausi town, as local residents speculated about the applicants and the process.

District-Level Committee and Procedure

According to official sources, a district-level CAA committee has been set up in Sambhal under the supervision of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The six-member panel includes two Intelligence Bureau officers, a tehsildar, a postal superintendent, and other officials.

The committee meets once every six months, and persecuted Bangladeshi Hindu families must present documents proving their nationality to be eligible for citizenship under the CAA.

Media Attention and Security Concerns

When news of the applications reached the media, journalists arrived at the site. Some of the applicants, described as women and youths, reportedly fled and hid in nearby lanes upon seeing the media. Attempts by reporters to speak to them were refused, and the applicants maintained their distance.

Officials of the district-level CAA committee declined to comment on camera, citing the confidentiality of the proceedings.

This case highlights the continuing implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act at the district level, and the careful verification process required before granting citizenship to migrants claiming persecution.