Topic: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges
4) The Citizenship (Amendment) the Bill intends to make it easier for non-Muslim immigrants from India’s three Muslim-majority neighbours to become citizens of India. Comment on the utility of the bill and the furore around it.(250 words)
Why this question:
The government intends to introduce The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill in Parliament’s Winter Session that commences on Monday and is scheduled to continue until December 13. Thus the question.
Key demand of the question:
One must explain the features of The Citizenship (Amendment) the Bill in detail and discuss its utility and the furore around it.
Directive:
Comment– here we have to express our knowledge and understanding of the issue and form an overall opinion thereupon.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Briefly state the nuances of the Bill.
Body:
Explain what the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill is.
Trace the chronology of events around the bill.
With the 16th Lok Sabha nearing the end of its term, the government was racing against time to introduce it in Rajya Sabha.
However, massive protests against the Bill in the Northeast acted to restrain the government, and Rajya Sabha adjourned sine die on February 13, 2019, without the Bill being tabled. The Bill is now likely to be introduced afresh in the Winter Session. It will have to be passed by both Houses in order to become a law.
Explain the controversy around the Bill.
Conclusion:
Conclude with what should be the possible way ahead to waddle through the situation.
