Citizenship Amendment Act (India)

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), enacted in India in December 2019, is a law that provides a pathway to Indian citizenship for non-Muslim refugees from three neighboring countries: Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. Specifically, it applies to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians who entered India before December 31, 2014, fleeing religious persecution. The act has sparked significant debate and protests, with critics arguing that it undermines India's secular constitution by excluding Muslims, while supporters claim it offers protection for vulnerable communities. The law continues to be a contentious issue in Indian politics and society.