The United States respects India`s democratic institutions and will continue to observe the active political debate, parliamentary discussions, and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-citizenship-amendment-act-when-actors-turned-activists-269216">protests</a> over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, a senior State Department official said on Thursday.

"We are seeing the active political debate, the discussions in Parliament, the protests by people who are espousing their views on that law. We are also fully aware that there is a judicial process that`s underway," the official said.

"And we respect India`s democratic institutions and India`s democratic practices, and we will continue to observe it on an ongoing basis,` the official added.

The senior State Department official said that Washington would talk to New Delhi "about the fact that as democracies, issues around minority rights, religious freedom, human rights are important pillars of democratic societies", and encourage India and the other democracies alike to adhere to those principles.

The official also said that the US recognises India as a vibrant democracy and holds regular conversations with the country "about a full range of issues".

Similar remarks were made by US Secretary of State Michael <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-was-on-the-call-says-pompeo-on-trump-call-to-ukraine-leader-253318">Pompeo</a> yesterday, when he said that his country cares deeply about protecting minorities and religious rights everywhere but honours "Indian democracy as they have a robust debate" on the issue of CAA.

"We care deeply and always will about protecting minorities, protecting religious rights everywhere. We honour Indian democracy and they have a robust debate in India on the issue. The US will be consistent in its response to these issues, not only in India but all across the world," Pompeo said during the joint presser with US Defence Secretary Mark Esper, India`s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-us-commence-22-ministerial-dialogue-in-washington-dc-269125">2+2</a> India-US ministerial dialogue.

His remarks came after being asked whether he thinks "it is appropriate for a democracy to use faith as a determining criterion for citizenship."Last week, the Indian Parliament had passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and it became an Act after receiving assent from President Ram Nath Kovind.

The Act grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Commenting on the Kashmir issue, the senior State Department official said that Washington has spoken publicly of concerns about prolonged detentions in the region after the Indian government`s decision to revoke <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/article-370-abrogation-foreign-medias-india-bias-249191">Article 370</a> of the Constitution on August 5.&nbsp;

The United States respects India`s democratic institutions and will continue to observe the active political debate, parliamentary discussions, and the protests over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, a senior State Department official said on Thursday.

The United States respects India`s democratic institutions and will continue to observe the active political debate, parliamentary discussions, and the protests over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, a senior State Department official said on Thursday. "We are seeing the active political debate, the discussions in Parliament, the protests by people who are espousing their views on that law. We are also fully aware that there is a judicial process that`s underway," the official said. "And we respect India`s democratic institutions and India`s democratic practices, and we will continue to observe it on an ongoing basis,` the official added. The senior State Department official said that Washington would talk to New Delhi "about the fact that as democracies, issues around minority rights, religious freedom, human rights are important pillars of democratic societies", and encourage India and the other democracies alike to adhere to those principles. The official also said that the US recognises India as a vibrant democracy and holds regular conversations with the country "about a full range of issues". Similar remarks were made by US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo yesterday, when he said that his country cares deeply about protecting minorities and religious rights everywhere but honours "Indian democracy as they have a robust debate" on the issue of CAA. "We care deeply and always will about protecting minorities, protecting religious rights everywhere. We honour Indian democracy and they have a robust debate in India on the issue. The US will be consistent in its response to these issues, not only in India but all across the world," Pompeo said during the joint presser with US Defence Secretary Mark Esper, India`s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh after the 2+2 India-US ministerial dialogue. His remarks came after being asked whether he thinks "it is appropriate for a democracy to use faith as a determining criterion for citizenship."Last week, the Indian Parliament had passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 and it became an Act after receiving assent from President Ram Nath Kovind. The Act grants Indian citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, and who entered India on or before December 31, 2014. Commenting on the Kashmir issue, the senior State Department official said that Washington has spoken publicly of concerns about prolonged detentions in the region after the Indian government`s decision to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution on August 5.

Respect India's democratic institutions; will continue to observe parliamentary discussions: US State Dept official on CAA

The District Magistrate of Ghaziabad on Friday announced that Internet services in the area will remain suspended till 10 am on Saturday.&nbsp;

All schools in Ghaziabad will also remain closed, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-caa-protests-internet-services-suspended-in-ghaziabad-meerut-bareilly-269237">Mobile Internet services were suspended in Ghaziabad</a> on Thursday night following the violent protests over the Citizenship Amendment Act in the state.

The Ghaziabad district administration suspended the services from 10 pm on December 19 till 10 pm on December 20.

Internet services were also snapped in Meerut and Bareilly.

Protests erupted in different parts of the country including Uttar Pradesh over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-citizenship-amendment-act-protests-3-killed-section-144-imposed-in-several-districts-of-uttar-pradesh-269311">Section-144 has been imposed in various parts</a> of the state because of the prevailing law and order situation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The District Magistrate of Ghaziabad on Friday announced that Internet services in the area will remain suspended till 10 am on Saturday. All schools in Ghaziabad will also remain closed, news agency ANI reported.

The District Magistrate of Ghaziabad on Friday announced that Internet services in the area will remain suspended till 10 am on Saturday. All schools in Ghaziabad will also remain closed, news agency ANI reported. Mobile Internet services were suspended in Ghaziabad on Thursday night following the violent protests over the Citizenship Amendment Act in the state. The Ghaziabad district administration suspended the services from 10 pm on December 19 till 10 pm on December 20. Internet services were also snapped in Meerut and Bareilly. Protests erupted in different parts of the country including Uttar Pradesh over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014. Section-144 has been imposed in various parts of the state because of the prevailing law and order situation. (With inputs from ANI)

CAA protests: Internet services to remain suspended in Ghaziabad till Saturday morning 

After Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded an "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/impartial-organisation-like-un-should-form-panel-to-see-how-many-people-favour-citizenship-amendment-act-mamata-269221">impartial organisation</a>" like United Nations to form a committee to check how many people were in favour of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Friday condemned her statement stating that her "stance is an outrage of essence and letter of the constitution".

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In the name of our Founding Fathers I fervently appeal to her to act as per her oath and regretfully withdraw her statement. As a senior leader and constitutional functionary she cannot be oblivious to the potentially dangerous consequences of such approach.
— Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/jdhankhar1/status/1207838368299503616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Mamata has taken an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamatas-rally-against-citizenship-law-unconstitutional-says-west-bengal-governor-268443">unconstitutional</a> route by her public stance on CAA: WB Guv and ignored my appeal. This has immeasurably caused damage to our democratic fabric," tweeted Dhankar.

He further appealed to Banerjee to act as per her oath and regretfully withdraw her statement."As a senior leader and constitutional functionary, she cannot be oblivious to the potentially dangerous consequences of such an approach. Her stance is an outrage of essence and letter of our constitution and no nation loving person can appreciate or countenance it. I am sure she would forthwith revisit her stance," said Dhankar in a tweet.

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Her stance is an outrage of essence and letter of of our constitution and no nation loving person can appreciate or countenance it. I am sure she would forthwith revisit her stance.
— Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/jdhankhar1/status/1207838734776848384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Thursday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had demanded that an "impartial organisation" like the United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of the Citizenship Amendment Act."Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering here.

Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.&nbsp;

After Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded an "impartial organisation" like United Nations to form a committee to check how many people were in favour of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Friday condemned her statement stating that her "stance is an outrage of essence and letter of the constitution".

After Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded an "impartial organisation" like United Nations to form a committee to check how many people were in favour of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar on Friday condemned her statement stating that her "stance is an outrage of essence and letter of the constitution". In the name of our Founding Fathers I fervently appeal to her to act as per her oath and regretfully withdraw her statement. As a senior leader and constitutional functionary she cannot be oblivious to the potentially dangerous consequences of such approach. — Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) December 20, 2019 × Mamata has taken an unconstitutional route by her public stance on CAA: WB Guv and ignored my appeal. This has immeasurably caused damage to our democratic fabric," tweeted Dhankar. He further appealed to Banerjee to act as per her oath and regretfully withdraw her statement."As a senior leader and constitutional functionary, she cannot be oblivious to the potentially dangerous consequences of such an approach. Her stance is an outrage of essence and letter of our constitution and no nation loving person can appreciate or countenance it. I am sure she would forthwith revisit her stance," said Dhankar in a tweet. Her stance is an outrage of essence and letter of of our constitution and no nation loving person can appreciate or countenance it. I am sure she would forthwith revisit her stance. — Jagdeep Dhankhar (@jdhankhar1) December 20, 2019 × On Thursday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee had demanded that an "impartial organisation" like the United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of the Citizenship Amendment Act."Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering here. Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.

Mamata has taken unconstitutional route by seeking outside intervention on CAA: West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankar

Ministry of External Affairs on Friday issued a statement slamming Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad's remarks over the Citizenship Amendment Act in India.&nbsp;

The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read.

The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen.&nbsp;

"The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read.

New Delhi has also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts".

According to reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity".&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs on Friday issued a statement slamming Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad's remarks over the Citizenship Amendment Act in India.

Ministry of External Affairs on Friday issued a statement slamming Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad's remarks over the Citizenship Amendment Act in India. The MEA called Mohamad's remarks as "factually inaccurate" and said that the Malaysian Prime Minister, "has yet again remarked on a matter that is entirely internal to India," the statement read. The statement further added that the new law is to provide citizenship to the "persecuted minorities from three countries" and that it does not impact any Indian citizen. "The Citizenship Amendment Act provides for citizenship through naturalization to be fast-tracked for non-citizens who are persecuted minorities from three countries. The Act does not impact in any manner on the status of any citizen of India, or deprive any Indian of any faith of her or his citizenship," the MEA release read. New Delhi has also asked Malaysia "to refrain from commenting on internal developments in India, especially without a right understanding of the facts". According to reports, the Malaysian PM during a summit in Kuala Lumpur made comments on the CAA, criticising the new citizenship law and questioning its "necessity".

Factually inaccurate: India slams Malaysian PM's remarks on CAA 

Launching a scathing attack on the BJP led Central government, Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Friday said that the ruling party has shown utter disregard to the people's voice by using "brute force" to suppress dissent and assured the people that her party is committed to defending their fundamental rights.

"There have been protests in the universities and academic institutions throughout the country against division agenda and anti-people policies of the BJP government. In a democracy, people have the right to raise their voice against policies of the government and register their concerns," said Gandhi in a video message.

"It is the duty of the government to address the people`s concerns. The BJP government has shown utter disregard for the people`s voice and chosen to use brute force to suppress dissent. This is unacceptable in a democracy," she said.

The Congress chief said that the amended Citizenship Act is "discriminatory" and the National Register of Citizens (NRCO) will particularly hurt the poor.

"CAA is discriminatory and proposed nationwide NRC will particularly hurt the poor and vulnerable. Like demonetisation, people will have to stand in line to prove their citizenship along with their ancestors," said she.

"People apprehensions are legitimate. Congress assures the people that it is fully committed to defend their fundamental rights and uphold foundational values of our Constitution," added Gandhi.

Protests erupted across the country over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which seeks to grant citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India on or before 31, 2014.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Launching a scathing attack on the BJP led Central government, Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Friday said that the ruling party has shown utter disregard to the people's voice by using "brute force" to suppress dissent and assured the people that her party is committed to defending their fundamental rights.

Launching a scathing attack on the BJP led Central government, Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Friday said that the ruling party has shown utter disregard to the people's voice by using "brute force" to suppress dissent and assured the people that her party is committed to defending their fundamental rights. "There have been protests in the universities and academic institutions throughout the country against division agenda and anti-people policies of the BJP government. In a democracy, people have the right to raise their voice against policies of the government and register their concerns," said Gandhi in a video message. "It is the duty of the government to address the people`s concerns. The BJP government has shown utter disregard for the people`s voice and chosen to use brute force to suppress dissent. This is unacceptable in a democracy," she said. The Congress chief said that the amended Citizenship Act is "discriminatory" and the National Register of Citizens (NRCO) will particularly hurt the poor. "CAA is discriminatory and proposed nationwide NRC will particularly hurt the poor and vulnerable. Like demonetisation, people will have to stand in line to prove their citizenship along with their ancestors," said she. "People apprehensions are legitimate. Congress assures the people that it is fully committed to defend their fundamental rights and uphold foundational values of our Constitution," added Gandhi. Protests erupted across the country over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which seeks to grant citizenship to refugees from Hindu, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist and Parsi communities fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India on or before 31, 2014.

Use of brute force to suppress dissent is unacceptable in democracy: Sonia Gandhi

The situation in parts of the national capital on Friday intensified as Delhi Police used water cannons on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/centre-seeks-suggestions-from-protesters-over-anti-caa-protests-269386">anti-CAA protesters</a> in Old Delhi area.&nbsp;

Hundreds of anti-CAA protesters thronged Old Delhi's Jama Masjid area today where Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad led a massive rally against the new citizenship law earlier in the day.&nbsp;

The protest in the evening intensified as protesters - who were marching from Old Delhi to Jantar Mantar - were blocked by the police near Delhi Gate.

A police vehicle was reportedly torched in Daryaganj&nbsp;area by protesters.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Protest continues outside Jama Masjid against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAmendmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAmendmentAct</a>. <a href="https://t.co/MCGdYNZfTm">pic.twitter.com/MCGdYNZfTm</a>
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The stir over anti-Citizenship Amendment Act continues in the national capital with Section 144 imposed in some parts and internet blockages in many areas.&nbsp;

The entry and exit at more than 15 stations of the Delhi Metro have also been closed to avoid movement of people and protesters in and around Delhi's strategic locations.&nbsp;

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Delhi: Heavy security deployed in Daryaganj area due to the ongoing protest against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAct</a> <a href="https://t.co/TJF4uDbdKa">https://t.co/TJF4uDbdKa</a> <a href="https://t.co/5OsjMq4mGC">pic.twitter.com/5OsjMq4mGC</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1208007437476716545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Friday closed the entry and exit gates of Rajiv Chowk, Kashmere Gate, Central Secretariat, Janpath, Mandi House, Pragati Maidan, Khan Market, Dilshad Garden, Shiv Vihar and Johri Enclave on the instructions of security agencies.&nbsp;

Earlier today, the DMRC had closed the Jama Masjid, Delhi Gate, Jaffrabad, Maujpur-Babarpur, and Jamia Millia Islamia metro stations.

The entry and exit gates of some of the metro stations were shut as a precautionary measure due to the protests at various places against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act.

The Act seeks to grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The situation in parts of the national capital on Friday intensified as Delhi Police used water cannons on anti-CAA protesters in Old Delhi area. Hundreds of anti-CAA protesters thronged Old Delhi's Jama Masjid area today where Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad led a massive rally against the new citizenship law earlier in the day.

The situation in parts of the national capital on Friday intensified as Delhi Police used water cannons on anti-CAA protesters in Old Delhi area. Hundreds of anti-CAA protesters thronged Old Delhi's Jama Masjid area today where Bhim Army chief Chandrashekhar Azad led a massive rally against the new citizenship law earlier in the day. The protest in the evening intensified as protesters - who were marching from Old Delhi to Jantar Mantar - were blocked by the police near Delhi Gate. A police vehicle was reportedly torched in Daryaganj area by protesters. Delhi: Protest continues outside Jama Masjid against #CitizenshipAmendmentAct. pic.twitter.com/MCGdYNZfTm — ANI (@ANI) December 20, 2019 × The stir over anti-Citizenship Amendment Act continues in the national capital with Section 144 imposed in some parts and internet blockages in many areas. The entry and exit at more than 15 stations of the Delhi Metro have also been closed to avoid movement of people and protesters in and around Delhi's strategic locations. Delhi: Heavy security deployed in Daryaganj area due to the ongoing protest against #CitizenshipAct https://t.co/TJF4uDbdKa pic.twitter.com/5OsjMq4mGC — ANI (@ANI) December 20, 2019 × The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on Friday closed the entry and exit gates of Rajiv Chowk, Kashmere Gate, Central Secretariat, Janpath, Mandi House, Pragati Maidan, Khan Market, Dilshad Garden, Shiv Vihar and Johri Enclave on the instructions of security agencies. Earlier today, the DMRC had closed the Jama Masjid, Delhi Gate, Jaffrabad, Maujpur-Babarpur, and Jamia Millia Islamia metro stations. The entry and exit gates of some of the metro stations were shut as a precautionary measure due to the protests at various places against the Citizenship (Amendment) Act. The Act seeks to grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.

Delhi: Stir over CAA intensifies as Police use water cannons in clash with protesters

The Central government on Friday said that it is ready to accept suggestions from people protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

The development comes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-citizenship-amendment-act-protests-3-killed-section-144-imposed-in-several-districts-of-uttar-pradesh-269311">protesters across the country took to the streets</a> against the new law which seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

Students, activists, among others have been voicing their dissent against the new Act amid heavy security.&nbsp;

Section 144 has been imposed in many parts of the country while internet services have also been affected in some areas.&nbsp;

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MHA sources on people protesting on roads against CAA: We brought the Bill after we consulted all, there were discussions. But they have the right to go to court &amp; people have right to protest too. Those who want to give suggestions can give, we're in process of framing the rule. <a href="https://t.co/6BNAm7CW6q">https://t.co/6BNAm7CW6q</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1207974728083759106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sources have said that the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act is under the Central government's control and will finalise who all will be involved in the enforcement of legislation, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"Implementation of the Act is under centre. We will finalise who all will be involved in implementation. It will be a digital and easy process so that people don't face any problem," MHA sources on some states denying implementation of the new citizenship law.

Sources said that the ministry is in the process of framing rules for CAA and people can give their suggestions.

"We brought the Bill after we consulted all, there were discussions. But, they have the right to go to the court and the people have the right to protest too. Those who want to give suggestions can give. We`re in process of framing the rule," they said on the protests against CAA adding that the CAA will not affect the Indian citizens.&nbsp;

"If any country has illegal migrants than the government has the right to through them out anyway," sources said on international bodies' reaction on CAA.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

The Central government on Friday said that it is ready to accept suggestions from people protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act. The development comes after protesters across the country took to the streets against the new law which seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh.

The Central government on Friday said that it is ready to accept suggestions from people protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act. The development comes after protesters across the country took to the streets against the new law which seeks to grant citizenship to non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh. Students, activists, among others have been voicing their dissent against the new Act amid heavy security. Section 144 has been imposed in many parts of the country while internet services have also been affected in some areas. MHA sources on people protesting on roads against CAA: We brought the Bill after we consulted all, there were discussions. But they have the right to go to court & people have right to protest too. Those who want to give suggestions can give, we're in process of framing the rule. https://t.co/6BNAm7CW6q — ANI (@ANI) December 20, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) sources have said that the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act is under the Central government's control and will finalise who all will be involved in the enforcement of legislation, news agency ANI reported. "Implementation of the Act is under centre. We will finalise who all will be involved in implementation. It will be a digital and easy process so that people don't face any problem," MHA sources on some states denying implementation of the new citizenship law. Sources said that the ministry is in the process of framing rules for CAA and people can give their suggestions. "We brought the Bill after we consulted all, there were discussions. But, they have the right to go to the court and the people have the right to protest too. Those who want to give suggestions can give. We`re in process of framing the rule," they said on the protests against CAA adding that the CAA will not affect the Indian citizens. "If any country has illegal migrants than the government has the right to through them out anyway," sources said on international bodies' reaction on CAA. (With inputs from ANI)

Centre seeks suggestions from protesters over Citizenship Amendment Act

After staying mum on the ongoing anti- CAA protest for days, Tamil superstar broke his silence on Thursday and expressed concern over the violence in several parts of the country over the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp; 
 
Reacting to the ongoing situation, the actor shared a tweet on Friday, "Violence cannot be a way out for any issue. Rather it should not become a solution. People must have a love for the country, think better for the country and have unity amongst themselves. The present situation of violence pains my heart." 
 
Rajinikanth, who was not explicit whether he is supporting the CAA and NRC, said that "violence should not be the solution for the problems". 
 
Asking to bring an end to the violence, the actor`s statement got the attention of both the critics and the supporters on twitter. His statement was criticised by many who are furious on his take on the issue as they considered it was an insult to the student community. 
On the other hand, his supporters were quick to list out some examples of peaceful protests carried by the star himself earlier favouring his idea of peaceful protests.

Meanwhile, Rajinikanth's friend, actor Kamal Haasan, has strongly condemned CAA and expressed his solidarity to students. Haasan has been regularly tweeting, condemning arrests of intellectuals and students by the police.&nbsp; 
 
The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) seeks to grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

After staying mum on the ongoing anti- CAA protest for days, Tamil superstar broke his silence on Thursday and expressed concern over the violence in several parts of the country over the Citizenship Amendment Act.

After staying mum on the ongoing anti- CAA protest for days, Tamil superstar broke his silence on Thursday and expressed concern over the violence in several parts of the country over the Citizenship Amendment Act. Reacting to the ongoing situation, the actor shared a tweet on Friday, "Violence cannot be a way out for any issue. Rather it should not become a solution. People must have a love for the country, think better for the country and have unity amongst themselves. The present situation of violence pains my heart." Rajinikanth, who was not explicit whether he is supporting the CAA and NRC, said that "violence should not be the solution for the problems". Asking to bring an end to the violence, the actor`s statement got the attention of both the critics and the supporters on twitter. His statement was criticised by many who are furious on his take on the issue as they considered it was an insult to the student community. On the other hand, his supporters were quick to list out some examples of peaceful protests carried by the star himself earlier favouring his idea of peaceful protests. Meanwhile, Rajinikanth's friend, actor Kamal Haasan, has strongly condemned CAA and expressed his solidarity to students. Haasan has been regularly tweeting, condemning arrests of intellectuals and students by the police. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) seeks to grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

Rajinikanth finally reacts on CAA protests, says 'Violence cannot be a way out for any issue'

Tackling violence with an iron hand is a necessity, but what explains stifling peaceful civil disobedience? It's time for the government to realise that with absolute majority comes more responsibility.

The ruling party was called the master of communication, they aced social media, they were on top of the curve when it came to digital messaging.

And now their government is failing to quell a protest that is spreading through social media. So what do they do? Shut the Internet?

Section 144 of the criminal procedure code is being imposed and implemented in various cities where protests are being held against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

The government has a mandate to enact and pass laws - even controversial ones - but, if government agencies stifle peaceful protests, then it betrays their lack of confidence.

On WION Edit, we discuss why this isn't just about a bill anymore. There is a much bigger issue to be addressed.

It's important to address the issue of illegal migrants in India. But the absolute majority should not allow a government to force a law, whose constitutional validity is now sub-judice and suppress any opposition to the law.

If people protest a controversial law in a peaceful manner, what is the problem? Why should civil disobedience warrant the arrest of scholars? Should the government stifle the voices of protesters or listen to them?&nbsp;

The government is losing control on the narrative. Even its traditional supporters in the civil society are calling this move the proverbial last straw.

So what should the government do? After all, it got the Bill cleared in Parliament with the due procedure. It should wait for the Supreme Court hearing, allow peaceful protests, prevent violence, and most importantly, address the concerns of the people.

It will help in two ways:

&nbsp;1. Shed the perception that the government is partial and muscular.

2. Send out a strong message on the health of our democracy to the people of India and the rest of the world.

It should be reiterated that the levers of Indian democracy are thriving and well oiled and the judiciary will decide on constitutional matters.

The government's brazen and aggressive posturing on CAA&nbsp;has attracted criticism even external players are exploiting the situation to peddle lies about India.

The government can solve this by allowing, ensuring and facilitating peaceful protests.&nbsp;

The absolute majority may allow governments to pass laws, but implementation can only be achieved with public participation.

The people of India voted the BJP back to power in May 2019 with overwhelming numbers. However, a big mandate does not mean absolute power - if anything - it means more responsibility.

If some citizens want to register dissent, then a responsible government should allow such protests. Dissent is good for democracy, to gag these voices sets us on a dangerous path. This country was founded upon and has been built on civil disobedience.

And remember, Section 144 of the CRPC is not a tool of suppression of dissent. It is meant to be used when there is an emergency situation. Let there be calm, let there be peaceful protests.

There's a thin line between being decisive and being dictatorial. The government must ensure it's not crossing that line. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Tackling violence with an iron hand is a necessity, but what explains stifling peaceful civil disobedience? It's time for the government to realise that with absolute majority comes more responsibility.

Tackling violence with an iron hand is a necessity, but what explains stifling peaceful civil disobedience? It's time for the government to realise that with absolute majority comes more responsibility. The ruling party was called the master of communication, they aced social media, they were on top of the curve when it came to digital messaging. And now their government is failing to quell a protest that is spreading through social media. So what do they do? Shut the Internet? Section 144 of the criminal procedure code is being imposed and implemented in various cities where protests are being held against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). The government has a mandate to enact and pass laws - even controversial ones - but, if government agencies stifle peaceful protests, then it betrays their lack of confidence. On WION Edit, we discuss why this isn't just about a bill anymore. There is a much bigger issue to be addressed. It's important to address the issue of illegal migrants in India. But the absolute majority should not allow a government to force a law, whose constitutional validity is now sub-judice and suppress any opposition to the law. If people protest a controversial law in a peaceful manner, what is the problem? Why should civil disobedience warrant the arrest of scholars? Should the government stifle the voices of protesters or listen to them? The government is losing control on the narrative. Even its traditional supporters in the civil society are calling this move the proverbial last straw. So what should the government do? After all, it got the Bill cleared in Parliament with the due procedure. It should wait for the Supreme Court hearing, allow peaceful protests, prevent violence, and most importantly, address the concerns of the people. It will help in two ways: 1. Shed the perception that the government is partial and muscular. 2. Send out a strong message on the health of our democracy to the people of India and the rest of the world. It should be reiterated that the levers of Indian democracy are thriving and well oiled and the judiciary will decide on constitutional matters. The government's brazen and aggressive posturing on CAA has attracted criticism even external players are exploiting the situation to peddle lies about India. The government can solve this by allowing, ensuring and facilitating peaceful protests. The absolute majority may allow governments to pass laws, but implementation can only be achieved with public participation. The people of India voted the BJP back to power in May 2019 with overwhelming numbers. However, a big mandate does not mean absolute power - if anything - it means more responsibility. If some citizens want to register dissent, then a responsible government should allow such protests. Dissent is good for democracy, to gag these voices sets us on a dangerous path. This country was founded upon and has been built on civil disobedience. And remember, Section 144 of the CRPC is not a tool of suppression of dissent. It is meant to be used when there is an emergency situation. Let there be calm, let there be peaceful protests. There's a thin line between being decisive and being dictatorial. The government must ensure it's not crossing that line. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Citizenship Amendment Act - absolute power comes with responsibility

In a bid to shade the protest against the amended Citizenship Act in patriotic fervour, protesters sang "Saare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara" at Delhi`s Jantar Mantar on Thursday.

Thousands gathered in the heart of the capital and peacefully protested against the new Act.

The protesters waved tricolour and displayed placards demanding rollback of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019.

Hundreds of youth and burqa-clad women joined the protesters who braved the chilling cold to register their dissent against the new legislation and National Register of Citizens (NRC). Famous Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz's 'Hum Dekhenge'&nbsp;also echoed.

Thousands of people cutting across ages participated in the protest. The peaceful protest at the heart of the national capital comes at a time when violent protest leading to arson and damage to public property is witnessed in several parts of the nation.

The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) grants citizens to non-Muslims of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who fled religious persecution and arrived in India until December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

In a bid to shade the protest against the amended Citizenship Act in patriotic fervour, protesters sang "Saare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara" at Delhi`s Jantar Mantar on Thursday.

In a bid to shade the protest against the amended Citizenship Act in patriotic fervour, protesters sang "Saare Jahan Se Achha Hindustan Hamara" at Delhi`s Jantar Mantar on Thursday. Thousands gathered in the heart of the capital and peacefully protested against the new Act. The protesters waved tricolour and displayed placards demanding rollback of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019. Hundreds of youth and burqa-clad women joined the protesters who braved the chilling cold to register their dissent against the new legislation and National Register of Citizens (NRC). Famous Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz's 'Hum Dekhenge' also echoed. Thousands of people cutting across ages participated in the protest. The peaceful protest at the heart of the national capital comes at a time when violent protest leading to arson and damage to public property is witnessed in several parts of the nation. The Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) grants citizens to non-Muslims of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who fled religious persecution and arrived in India until December 31, 2014.

Anti-CAA protesters sing 'Sare Jahan Se Achha' at Delhi's Jantar Mantar

Internet services have been suspended in Ghaziabad on Thursday night for the next 24 hours following the violent protests over the Citizenship Amendment Act in the state.

The Ghaziabad district administration suspended the services from 10 pm today till 10 pm on December 20.

Meanwhile, internet services have also been snapped in Meerut and Bareilly. Protests erupted in different parts of the country including Uttar Pradesh over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

Section-144 has been imposed in various parts of the state in view of the prevailing law and order situation.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Internet services have been suspended in Ghaziabad on Thursday night for the next 24 hours following the violent protests over the Citizenship Amendment Act in the state.

Internet services have been suspended in Ghaziabad on Thursday night for the next 24 hours following the violent protests over the Citizenship Amendment Act in the state. The Ghaziabad district administration suspended the services from 10 pm today till 10 pm on December 20. Meanwhile, internet services have also been snapped in Meerut and Bareilly. Protests erupted in different parts of the country including Uttar Pradesh over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014. Section-144 has been imposed in various parts of the state in view of the prevailing law and order situation.

Anti-CAA protests: Internet services suspended in Ghaziabad, Meerut, Bareilly

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act.

"Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering.

She also accused the BJP of "dividing" the country and said that the protests against the amended Citizenship Act will not stop unless the government withdraws the legislation, which aims to grant citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from three countries in India's neighbourhood.

"Suddenly after 73 years of Independence, we have to prove that we are Indian citizens. Where was BJP's at that time? BJP is dividing the country. Don't stop your protest because we have to get CAA revoked... Protests will get stronger as the day passes," Banerjee said while speaking at a protest.

"You have won 38 per cent vote after doing so much and many of them are against you. It's bad luck for us that we have to give our fathers and mothers identity. All are citizens and suddenly who gave this idea that we have to give proof of it... They are doing dirty politics," she added.

Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar asked Banerjee to withdraw her reported remarks.

"I appeal CM Mamata Bannerjee to please withdraw her reported statement 'Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or National Human Rights Commission hold a referendum to see how many people are in favour or against Citizenship (Amendment) Act'", he said in a tweet.

Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday demanded that an "impartial organisation" like United Nations should form a committee to see how many people were in favour of Citizenship Amendment Act. "Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or Human Rights Commission ...form a committee to see how many people are in favour or against the Citizenship Amendment Act," she said while addressing a gathering. She also accused the BJP of "dividing" the country and said that the protests against the amended Citizenship Act will not stop unless the government withdraws the legislation, which aims to grant citizenship to non-Muslim refugees from three countries in India's neighbourhood. "Suddenly after 73 years of Independence, we have to prove that we are Indian citizens. Where was BJP's at that time? BJP is dividing the country. Don't stop your protest because we have to get CAA revoked... Protests will get stronger as the day passes," Banerjee said while speaking at a protest. "You have won 38 per cent vote after doing so much and many of them are against you. It's bad luck for us that we have to give our fathers and mothers identity. All are citizens and suddenly who gave this idea that we have to give proof of it... They are doing dirty politics," she added. Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar asked Banerjee to withdraw her reported remarks. "I appeal CM Mamata Bannerjee to please withdraw her reported statement 'Let there be an impartial organisation like United Nations or National Human Rights Commission hold a referendum to see how many people are in favour or against Citizenship (Amendment) Act'", he said in a tweet. Banerjee has been vehemently opposing the amended Citizenship Act and has said that she will not allow the legislation to be implemented in West Bengal. Several other non-BJP chief ministers have also echoed similar views.

Impartial organisation like UN should form panel to see how many people favour Citizenship Amendment Act: Mamata

The protests against India's Citizenship Amendment Act has sparked reactions by some Bollywood stars while the A-listers stayed mum.

This should be a good thing in an ideal world, but we don't live in an ideal world.

The voices we hear are heavily politicised. The conflict seems intractable and has reached the courts.

The Supreme Court refused to stay the amended law and will hear the case next month. But politics has turned a sensitive issue into a religious divide.

On WION Edit, we explore what this means for India.

The apex court issued notices to all the petitioners challenging the citizenship law. A three-judge bench headed by CJI Bobde asked the Centre to file the response by the second week of January.

The rules of the law are yet to framed, and there is no question of a stay on something that has been passed in both the Houses of Parliament.

The court also asked the government to publish details of the act in the media so that people know the specifics clearly. This should calm frayed nerves, but it hasn't.

Politicians on both sides, for and against the Act - are stirring the emotions with polarising speeches.

If the home minister spoke about nation-wide NRC, the opposition is projecting a dire situation for the Muslims, &nbsp;talking about General Dyer, Jallianwala Bagh and the possibility of riots.

If politicians keep their free speech responsibly, the protests will continue to be protests,&nbsp;but the political class is making the discourse poisonous.

Any rise in communal tensions can lead the country to a dangerous path, and thus, political parties should stop seeking mileage from this unrest.

Let there be protests, and let there be peace in those protests. India has a judiciary for a reason. If you disagree go to the courts. Also, instead of 'identifying protesters by their clothes', the government should try to address their concerns.

Student protests are a part of democracy. The biggest political movements the world over have originated in universities, but letting these protests degenerate into violent outbreaks is unacceptable. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp;

The protests against India's Citizenship Amendment Act has sparked reactions by some Bollywood stars while the A-listers stayed mum. This should be a good thing in an ideal world, but we don't live in an ideal world.

The protests against India's Citizenship Amendment Act has sparked reactions by some Bollywood stars while the A-listers stayed mum. This should be a good thing in an ideal world, but we don't live in an ideal world. The voices we hear are heavily politicised. The conflict seems intractable and has reached the courts. The Supreme Court refused to stay the amended law and will hear the case next month. But politics has turned a sensitive issue into a religious divide. On WION Edit, we explore what this means for India. The apex court issued notices to all the petitioners challenging the citizenship law. A three-judge bench headed by CJI Bobde asked the Centre to file the response by the second week of January. The rules of the law are yet to framed, and there is no question of a stay on something that has been passed in both the Houses of Parliament. The court also asked the government to publish details of the act in the media so that people know the specifics clearly. This should calm frayed nerves, but it hasn't. Politicians on both sides, for and against the Act - are stirring the emotions with polarising speeches. If the home minister spoke about nation-wide NRC, the opposition is projecting a dire situation for the Muslims, talking about General Dyer, Jallianwala Bagh and the possibility of riots. If politicians keep their free speech responsibly, the protests will continue to be protests, but the political class is making the discourse poisonous. Any rise in communal tensions can lead the country to a dangerous path, and thus, political parties should stop seeking mileage from this unrest. Let there be protests, and let there be peace in those protests. India has a judiciary for a reason. If you disagree go to the courts. Also, instead of 'identifying protesters by their clothes', the government should try to address their concerns. Student protests are a part of democracy. The biggest political movements the world over have originated in universities, but letting these protests degenerate into violent outbreaks is unacceptable. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Citizenship Amendment Act - when actors turned activists

Union Ministry of Home Affairs will be holding a review meeting later today over the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act across the country, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Section 144, which prohibits congregation of more than four people in public places, has been imposed in different parts of the country as well in areas of the national capital.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, several protesters were detained by the Delhi Police near Red Fort. Over 15 stations of Delhi Metro have been shut in the wake of anti-CAA protests.&nbsp;

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Union Ministry of Home Affairs to hold a review meeting later today over the protests against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CitizenshipAmendmentAct?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CitizenshipAmendmentAct</a> in different parts of the country. <a href="https://t.co/vP2ad7N0pW">pic.twitter.com/vP2ad7N0pW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1207631318390992897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Historian Ramachandra Guha was detained during a protest in Bengaluru while he was participating in a peaceful protest at townhall against the new citizenship law.&nbsp;

Other cities like Bhubaneshwar, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bhopal and Hyderabad also witnessed protests today morning.

Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has asked protesters not to step back.&nbsp;

"We have to get the CAA revoked," Banerjee said today during an address.&nbsp;

"Suddenly after 73 years of independence, we have to prove that we are Indian citizens. Where was BJP's head and tail at that time, BJP is dividing the country. Don't stop your protest because we have to get the CAA revoked," she said.&nbsp;

Union Ministry of Home Affairs will be holding a review meeting later today over the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act across the country, news agency ANI reported.

Union Ministry of Home Affairs will be holding a review meeting later today over the protests against the Citizenship Amendment Act across the country, news agency ANI reported. Section 144, which prohibits congregation of more than four people in public places, has been imposed in different parts of the country as well in areas of the national capital. Earlier in the day, several protesters were detained by the Delhi Police near Red Fort. Over 15 stations of Delhi Metro have been shut in the wake of anti-CAA protests. Union Ministry of Home Affairs to hold a review meeting later today over the protests against #CitizenshipAmendmentAct in different parts of the country. pic.twitter.com/vP2ad7N0pW — ANI (@ANI) December 19, 2019 × Historian Ramachandra Guha was detained during a protest in Bengaluru while he was participating in a peaceful protest at townhall against the new citizenship law. Other cities like Bhubaneshwar, Mumbai, Pune, Chennai, Bhopal and Hyderabad also witnessed protests today morning. Meanwhile, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has asked protesters not to step back. "We have to get the CAA revoked," Banerjee said today during an address. "Suddenly after 73 years of independence, we have to prove that we are Indian citizens. Where was BJP's head and tail at that time, BJP is dividing the country. Don't stop your protest because we have to get the CAA revoked," she said.

CAA protests: Home Ministry to hold review meeting over unrest across country

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/indigo-qatar-airways-to-announce-strategic-deal-260041">IndiGo</a>, India's biggest airline by market share, has canceled 19 flights from Delhi as road traffic disruption in the capital city has affected the availability of its crew, a Delhi airport official said on Thursday. A further 16 flights are delayed.

The traffic disruption has been caused by protests in Delhi and in several cities across the country against a contentious new citizenship law that is largely seen as anti-Muslim.

"Due to traffic restrictions and to accommodate passengers reaching late to the airport, we have rescheduled and curtailed our schedule in and out of Delhi by approximately 20 departures," IndiGo said in a statement, adding that this accounts for about 10 per cent of its total flights out of the capital.

IndiGo, India's biggest airline by market share, has canceled 19 flights from Delhi as road traffic disruption in the capital city has affected the availability of its crew, a Delhi airport official said on Thursday.

IndiGo, India's biggest airline by market share, has canceled 19 flights from Delhi as road traffic disruption in the capital city has affected the availability of its crew, a Delhi airport official said on Thursday. A further 16 flights are delayed. The traffic disruption has been caused by protests in Delhi and in several cities across the country against a contentious new citizenship law that is largely seen as anti-Muslim. "Due to traffic restrictions and to accommodate passengers reaching late to the airport, we have rescheduled and curtailed our schedule in and out of Delhi by approximately 20 departures," IndiGo said in a statement, adding that this accounts for about 10 per cent of its total flights out of the capital.

IndiGo cancels 19 flights from Delhi because of protests in the city

India has no refugee policy. It is not a signatory to the UN’s 1951 Refugee Convention, which defines a refugee. Now, India avowedly wants to be a refuge for persecuted Hindus in the region and professedly for that purpose has enacted the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

At the same time, the world’s largest democracy is silent on the genocide of Myanmar’s Rohingya, the region’s worst persecuted minority. It fell to The Gambia to take up in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) the killing of thousands of Rohingya in Myanmar’s Rakhine state in August 2017. UN investigations suggest that at least 10,000 Rohingya may have been killed in the military crackdown, which saw more than 700,000 Rohingya flee Buddhist-majority Myanmar to Bangladesh.

Yet CAA provides for citizenship – on the basis of religion - to persecuted Buddhists along with Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis and Christians from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. In other words, the refugee seeking migrant must be a non-Muslim from a Muslim-majority nation, which Myanmar is not. Neither is Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is home to the largest proportion of Hindu population – 12.6 per cent – outside India. In recent decades, it is in Sri Lanka that the largest number of Hindus (Tamils) – about 2.55 million – has suffered discrimination, denial of their rights and persecution under the majoritarian Sinhalese. It is in Sri Lanka that the highest number of Hindus (Tamils) was killed during the civil war from 1983 to 2009, which claimed nearly1.9 lakh lives including of non-Tamils; and, it is from Sri Lanka that, after 1971, the largest number of Hindu refugees came to India. Tamil Nadu still has a sizable number of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees.

However, the Indian government, though explicitly committed to providing refuge to persecuted Hindus in the region, couldn’t care less about Sri Lankan Hindus. To justify their exclusion on the ground that their persecution was linguistic – and not religious – will not wash because they are Hindus as much as they are Tamils. And, as much as the Hindu, the Muslim is also a persecuted minority under the Sinhalese-Buddhist majority in Sri Lanka.

The BJP government has no explanation for this exclusion of minorities (including Hindus) in Sri Lanka and Myanmar. It may well be because the Hindi-Hindutva party has no vote bank in Tamil Nadu; and its polarising Hindu-Muslim politics has been rewarded mainly in the cow belt and is making headway in Bengal. In the eastern state, the success of its divisive agenda depends on targeting Bangladesh and “Bangladeshis” in India.

This shift to religion as a basis for citizenship and exclusion of Muslims gives a new, intimidating ring to India’s policy of “neighbours first”. The CAA upturns the very idea of citizenship by rooting it in religion. The CAA, to be followed by the NRC (National Register of Citizens), is about finding people to exclude, not include. The government can give citizenship to anyone and does not need a new law for that. It is to exclude a particular community that the new law has been passed.

Such an extension of divisiveness at home to South Asia as a whole is fraught with serious consequences including long-term damage to India’s reputation, its image as a leading power, its culture of diversity and its credentials as a democracy. Even East Asia’s authoritarian regimes with restricted democracy have taken particular care to maintain their non-discriminatory ethnic, linguistic, cultural and religious diversity.&nbsp;

The CAA is an instrument for tyrannising a minority, especially the poor and persecuted in India and South Asia. In adopting such a law, the government has betrayed India’s long history of providing refuge to the persecuted and displaced from neighbouring countries.

Sixty years ago, thousands of Tibetan Buddhists and the Dalai Lama sought refuge in India. During the 1971 war, India was a refuge for lakhs of people from East Pakistan, who returned after the birth of Bangladesh. The India that stood up to the West, including for “liberation of Bangladesh”, and supported struggles against colonialism, imperialism and apartheid was a much poorer country, neither wanted at the world’s high tables nor wooed by the hegemons of the time

Regardless of the party in office – Congress, Janata, National Front-Left Front – and the ideological tilt of leaders, be it Indira Gandhi, Morarji Desai, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Rajiv Gandhi or VP Singh, India supported the cause of the oppressed and uprooted elsewhere; and, stood up for peace, freedom and democracy.

In grace with history, India not only backed peoples’ struggles abroad but was also a safe haven to those who sought refuge and resisted tyrannies in their home countries. Besides the Dalai Lama and the Tibetans, there were others, too, over the decades - refugees and democracy activists from Iran, Afghanistan, Palestine, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Burma and several African countries, including South Africa.

Traditionally, Europe was home to those fleeing persecution. At a time when London and Paris, for example, were the choice of most political exiles, a young BP Koirala came to Calcutta and led Nepal’s struggle for democracy from Indian soil. History is replete with instances of the powerful pull India’s diversity and democracy exerted on the mind of freedom-loving peoples who resisted dictators, discrimination and oppression.

Doubtless, that India is changing, perhaps disappearing. But now, the very idea of that India and its values are being religiously destroyed by the state itself. 
 
(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

India has no refugee policy. It is not a signatory to the UN’s 1951 Refugee Convention, which defines a refugee. Now, India avowedly wants to be a refuge for persecuted Hindus in the region and professedly for that purpose has enacted the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

India has no refugee policy. It is not a signatory to the UN’s 1951 Refugee Convention, which defines a refugee. Now, India avowedly wants to be a refuge for persecuted Hindus in the region and professedly for that purpose has enacted the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). At the same time, the world’s largest democracy is silent on the genocide of Myanmar’s Rohingya, the region’s worst persecuted minority. It fell to The Gambia to take up in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) the killing of thousands of Rohingya in Myanmar’s Rakhine state in August 2017. UN investigations suggest that at least 10,000 Rohingya may have been killed in the military crackdown, which saw more than 700,000 Rohingya flee Buddhist-majority Myanmar to Bangladesh. Yet CAA provides for citizenship – on the basis of religion - to persecuted Buddhists along with Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis and Christians from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. In other words, the refugee seeking migrant must be a non-Muslim from a Muslim-majority nation, which Myanmar is not. Neither is Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka is home to the largest proportion of Hindu population – 12.6 per cent – outside India. In recent decades, it is in Sri Lanka that the largest number of Hindus (Tamils) – about 2.55 million – has suffered discrimination, denial of their rights and persecution under the majoritarian Sinhalese. It is in Sri Lanka that the highest number of Hindus (Tamils) was killed during the civil war from 1983 to 2009, which claimed nearly1.9 lakh lives including of non-Tamils; and, it is from Sri Lanka that, after 1971, the largest number of Hindu refugees came to India. Tamil Nadu still has a sizable number of Sri Lankan Tamil refugees. However, the Indian government, though explicitly committed to providing refuge to persecuted Hindus in the region, couldn’t care less about Sri Lankan Hindus. To justify their exclusion on the ground that their persecution was linguistic – and not religious – will not wash because they are Hindus as much as they are Tamils. And, as much as the Hindu, the Muslim is also a persecuted minority under the Sinhalese-Buddhist majority in Sri Lanka. The BJP government has no explanation for this exclusion of minorities (including Hindus) in Sri Lanka and Myanmar. It may well be because the Hindi-Hindutva party has no vote bank in Tamil Nadu; and its polarising Hindu-Muslim politics has been rewarded mainly in the cow belt and is making headway in Bengal. In the eastern state, the success of its divisive agenda depends on targeting Bangladesh and “Bangladeshis” in India. This shift to religion as a basis for citizenship and exclusion of Muslims gives a new, intimidating ring to India’s policy of “neighbours first”. The CAA upturns the very idea of citizenship by rooting it in religion. The CAA, to be followed by the NRC (National Register of Citizens), is about finding people to exclude, not include. The government can give citizenship to anyone and does not need a new law for that. It is to exclude a particular community that the new law has been passed. Such an extension of divisiveness at home to South Asia as a whole is fraught with serious consequences including long-term damage to India’s reputation, its image as a leading power, its culture of diversity and its credentials as a democracy. Even East Asia’s authoritarian regimes with restricted democracy have taken particular care to maintain their non-discriminatory ethnic, linguistic, cultural and religious diversity. The CAA is an instrument for tyrannising a minority, especially the poor and persecuted in India and South Asia. In adopting such a law, the government has betrayed India’s long history of providing refuge to the persecuted and displaced from neighbouring countries. Sixty years ago, thousands of Tibetan Buddhists and the Dalai Lama sought refuge in India. During the 1971 war, India was a refuge for lakhs of people from East Pakistan, who returned after the birth of Bangladesh. The India that stood up to the West, including for “liberation of Bangladesh”, and supported struggles against colonialism, imperialism and apartheid was a much poorer country, neither wanted at the world’s high tables nor wooed by the hegemons of the time Regardless of the party in office – Congress, Janata, National Front-Left Front – and the ideological tilt of leaders, be it Indira Gandhi, Morarji Desai, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Rajiv Gandhi or VP Singh, India supported the cause of the oppressed and uprooted elsewhere; and, stood up for peace, freedom and democracy. In grace with history, India not only backed peoples’ struggles abroad but was also a safe haven to those who sought refuge and resisted tyrannies in their home countries. Besides the Dalai Lama and the Tibetans, there were others, too, over the decades - refugees and democracy activists from Iran, Afghanistan, Palestine, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Burma and several African countries, including South Africa. Traditionally, Europe was home to those fleeing persecution. At a time when London and Paris, for example, were the choice of most political exiles, a young BP Koirala came to Calcutta and led Nepal’s struggle for democracy from Indian soil. History is replete with instances of the powerful pull India’s diversity and democracy exerted on the mind of freedom-loving peoples who resisted dictators, discrimination and oppression. Doubtless, that India is changing, perhaps disappearing. But now, the very idea of that India and its values are being religiously destroyed by the state itself. (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India: No more refuge for the persecuted

In India resentment over the amended Citizenship law among certain quarters has culminated into a series of protests. Atleast 20 petitions have been fired in the Supreme Court of India till now. A three-judge bench headed by Justice SA Bobde will hear the petition today.

Supreme Court 3 judge bench to hear CAA petition today

Kamal Haasan lodged in protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Chennai on Wednesday in a protest march led by students of Madras University. 
&nbsp; 
"I am a student until I die. Our students are made refugees here. This is our responsibility. I have not come here as a politician. I have come here to lend my face as podium and vocal chord as a microphone," he said. 
 
The actor, who has earlier this year established his political party Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK), also said that as a political leader it was his duty to stand against CAA. "The man who came to India said, "sare jahan se achcha hindositan hamara ye gulistan hamara" but it is not a gulistan," the actor added.&nbsp; 
 
Universities across the country have been protesting over the violence in Jamia Milia University that took place on Sunday. The clash between Delhi Police and the students left about 100 students injured.&nbsp;

Kamal Haasan lodged in protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Chennai on Wednesday in a protest march led by students of Madras University. "I am a student until I die.

Kamal Haasan lodged in protest against the Citizenship Amendment Act in Chennai on Wednesday in a protest march led by students of Madras University. "I am a student until I die. Our students are made refugees here. This is our responsibility. I have not come here as a politician. I have come here to lend my face as podium and vocal chord as a microphone," he said. The actor, who has earlier this year established his political party Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (MDMK), also said that as a political leader it was his duty to stand against CAA. "The man who came to India said, "sare jahan se achcha hindositan hamara ye gulistan hamara" but it is not a gulistan," the actor added. Universities across the country have been protesting over the violence in Jamia Milia University that took place on Sunday. The clash between Delhi Police and the students left about 100 students injured.

Kamal Haasan joins student protest march in Chennai, says, 'I'm a student until I die'

A total of eight people have been arrested, while 2 cases have been registered in connection with the violence that broke out in Seelampur and Zafarabad areas of New Delhi over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, Delhi Police said on Wednesday.

"We have a lot of video footage through which people are being identified. Strict action will be taken against those who will be found accused in this case," Joint Commissioner of Delhi Police Alok Kumar said.

Meanwhile, police conducted flag march in Mustafabad and Ghonda areas of the National capital today.

"We want to give a message that strict action will be taken against those who try to disrupt law and order in the area. Section 144 has been imposed. The situation is completely under control and peaceful," Kumar said.

Earlier, RP Meena, the Additional DCP of the North-East Delhi had confirmed the arrest of six people, all of whom were locals, and said that multiple FIRs had been registered in Seelampur, Jafrabad, and Dayalpur areas of the National capital.

Protests escalated in Delhi on Sunday over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

A total of eight people have been arrested, while 2 cases have been registered in connection with the violence that broke out in Seelampur and Zafarabad areas of New Delhi over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, Delhi Police said on Wednesday.

A total of eight people have been arrested, while 2 cases have been registered in connection with the violence that broke out in Seelampur and Zafarabad areas of New Delhi over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act 2019, Delhi Police said on Wednesday. "We have a lot of video footage through which people are being identified. Strict action will be taken against those who will be found accused in this case," Joint Commissioner of Delhi Police Alok Kumar said. Meanwhile, police conducted flag march in Mustafabad and Ghonda areas of the National capital today. "We want to give a message that strict action will be taken against those who try to disrupt law and order in the area. Section 144 has been imposed. The situation is completely under control and peaceful," Kumar said. Earlier, RP Meena, the Additional DCP of the North-East Delhi had confirmed the arrest of six people, all of whom were locals, and said that multiple FIRs had been registered in Seelampur, Jafrabad, and Dayalpur areas of the National capital. Protests escalated in Delhi on Sunday over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which seeks to grant citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Parsis, Buddhists and Christians fleeing religious persecution from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh and came to India on or before December 31, 2014.

Anti-CAA protests: 8 arrested for violence in Delhi's Seelampur, Zafarabad areas

With protests erupting against the amended Citizenship Act in different parts of the country, actor and singer Farhan Akhtar on Wednesday announced that he will take part in a demonstration against the law tomorrow.&nbsp; 
 
The actor took to Twitter on Wednesday and said that the time to protest on social media is now over. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/anurag-kashyap-richa-chadha-anubhav-sinha-other-bollywood-celebs-condemn-police-brutality-over-citizenship-law-268472">Also see: Bollywood celebrities who extended their support to the student led&nbsp;anti-CAA protest</a> 
 
"Here`s what you need to know about why these protests are important. See you on the 19th at August Kranti Maidan, Mumbai.&nbsp; 
The time to protest on social media alone is over," read Akhtar`s tweet.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Here’s what you need to know about why these protests are important. See you on the 19th at August Kranti Maidan, Mumbai. The time to protest on social media alone is over. <a href="https://t.co/lwkyMCHk2v">pic.twitter.com/lwkyMCHk2v</a>
— Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarOutAkhtar/status/1207143874138910720?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Alongside the tweet, he shared a graphic describing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the National Register of Citizens (NRC). 
Other celebrities like Konkona Sen Sharma, Mahesh Bhatt and Sushant Singh have also joined the protests against the amended Citizenship Act.&nbsp;

With protests erupting against the amended Citizenship Act in different parts of the country, actor and singer Farhan Akhtar on Wednesday announced that he will take part in a demonstration against the law tomorrow.

With protests erupting against the amended Citizenship Act in different parts of the country, actor and singer Farhan Akhtar on Wednesday announced that he will take part in a demonstration against the law tomorrow. The actor took to Twitter on Wednesday and said that the time to protest on social media is now over. Also see: Bollywood celebrities who extended their support to the student led anti-CAA protest "Here`s what you need to know about why these protests are important. See you on the 19th at August Kranti Maidan, Mumbai. The time to protest on social media alone is over," read Akhtar`s tweet. Here’s what you need to know about why these protests are important. See you on the 19th at August Kranti Maidan, Mumbai. The time to protest on social media alone is over. pic.twitter.com/lwkyMCHk2v — Farhan Akhtar (@FarOutAkhtar) December 18, 2019 × Alongside the tweet, he shared a graphic describing the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the National Register of Citizens (NRC). Other celebrities like Konkona Sen Sharma, Mahesh Bhatt and Sushant Singh have also joined the protests against the amended Citizenship Act.

Farhan Akhtar to join protest in Mumbai against CAA

The world is watching the violence that has erupted after the passing of Citizenship Act in Indian Parliament. The reactions received from all over the world are not favourable. A UN agency has termed the new law 'fundamentally discriminatory'. #CAAProtest #CAB #CitizenshipLaw

India's new citizenship law sparks protest, gets global responses

BJP by unilaterally announcing NRC has created a situation whereby people are not willing to believe an IOTA of what the government is saying about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). In fact, CAA is being associated with NRC which has not even been conceived on the paper.

The question is whether NRC is an ideological exercise or simple administrative drive to map the population of the country. Absence of clarity on it has led to campus violence across the country and widespread condemnation of the legislative exercise.

The most important aspect of the protest is that they are leaderless. It is for this reason, the government must have a dialogue with people even if it feels that anger is misplaced. It will help the Centre bypass political actors who are stoking violence in the name of rights.

The impression is that Centre wants to turn NRC into an electoral issue which would ultimately lead to harassment of 14 crore Muslims. This argument has become central to the protests cutting across universities in India. CAA instead of accommodating persecuted minorities, has turned into a debate on changing the character of the Constitution. It must be contested and clarified.

Another notable point is that it is not the first time that campus violence has erupted on ideological issues during Modi’s tenure. It has happened thrice before. The only difference between the previous protests and the present outcry is that the latter has galvanised the entire Muslim community.

Rohith Vemula suicide case, JNU Kashmir protest and FTII were used by the Opposition to mobilise opinion against Narendra Modi but in all 3 cases, a strong counter polarisation took place.

TheBJP was able to escape with the issue of nationalism in the case of JNU. In FTII case, it was able to garner support from Bollywood and divide it vertically on ideological lines whereas in the case of Vemula, Narendra Modi’s strong Dalit pitch resulted in the split of Dalit votes in Uttar Pradesh leading to BJP’s sweep in the assembly elections. Many senior politicians ran towards campus to own&nbsp;the campaign. This is missing in the 4th campaign.

None of the mainstream politicians went to Jamia fearing that photographs with the Muslims community would further polarise the debate. Even Priyanka Gandhi went to India Gate and sat on a dharna on the issue of CAA. Rahul Gandhi too extended support only via Twitter and the rest of politicians have chosen to meet the President of India. So, despite the support, mainstream political parties, except Mamata Banerjee-led TMC, have kept a distance from campus protests.&nbsp;

But, BJP must understand that countering Muslim exceptionalism in policies is one thing, and to marginalise them as ‘political’ citizens is another. It is not possible for any nation to have a disgruntled population of 14 crore.

Though, BJP is right in saying that all the decisions were passed by Parliament and kept in public domain from 2016 onwards. The issue even figured in the party’s manifesto, and hence, BJP cannot be blamed for pushing an agenda without letting the world know. But even then, the party needs to nuance the message.&nbsp;

This brings us to the last aspect of the issue which is illegal immigration in the country. Centre will need to readdress it's strategy wherein the policy of identifying illegal immigrants does not turn into a witch hunt. During the infamous Emergency, the family control drive by Congress led to a severe political backlash for Indira Gandhi. Centre needs to be mindful of the issue.&nbsp;

The call for nationwide NRC has even impacted the court-authored drive of NRC in Assam which was born out of Assam Accord authored by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The North East continues to suffer illegal immigration from Bangladesh. The illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya Muslims immigration is a real problem for India. It impacts demography and creates electoral anomalies. Illegal immigrants have changed the shape of constituencies in North East, West Bengal and even deep inside Jharkhand.

But the argument of a national NRC has rattled the minorities. BJP will need to soothe the frayed nerves.&nbsp; 
 
(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

BJP by unilaterally announcing NRC has created a situation whereby people are not willing to believe an IOTA of what the government is saying about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).

BJP by unilaterally announcing NRC has created a situation whereby people are not willing to believe an IOTA of what the government is saying about the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). In fact, CAA is being associated with NRC which has not even been conceived on the paper. The question is whether NRC is an ideological exercise or simple administrative drive to map the population of the country. Absence of clarity on it has led to campus violence across the country and widespread condemnation of the legislative exercise. The most important aspect of the protest is that they are leaderless. It is for this reason, the government must have a dialogue with people even if it feels that anger is misplaced. It will help the Centre bypass political actors who are stoking violence in the name of rights. The impression is that Centre wants to turn NRC into an electoral issue which would ultimately lead to harassment of 14 crore Muslims. This argument has become central to the protests cutting across universities in India. CAA instead of accommodating persecuted minorities, has turned into a debate on changing the character of the Constitution. It must be contested and clarified. Another notable point is that it is not the first time that campus violence has erupted on ideological issues during Modi’s tenure. It has happened thrice before. The only difference between the previous protests and the present outcry is that the latter has galvanised the entire Muslim community. Rohith Vemula suicide case, JNU Kashmir protest and FTII were used by the Opposition to mobilise opinion against Narendra Modi but in all 3 cases, a strong counter polarisation took place. TheBJP was able to escape with the issue of nationalism in the case of JNU. In FTII case, it was able to garner support from Bollywood and divide it vertically on ideological lines whereas in the case of Vemula, Narendra Modi’s strong Dalit pitch resulted in the split of Dalit votes in Uttar Pradesh leading to BJP’s sweep in the assembly elections. Many senior politicians ran towards campus to own the campaign. This is missing in the 4th campaign. None of the mainstream politicians went to Jamia fearing that photographs with the Muslims community would further polarise the debate. Even Priyanka Gandhi went to India Gate and sat on a dharna on the issue of CAA. Rahul Gandhi too extended support only via Twitter and the rest of politicians have chosen to meet the President of India. So, despite the support, mainstream political parties, except Mamata Banerjee-led TMC, have kept a distance from campus protests. But, BJP must understand that countering Muslim exceptionalism in policies is one thing, and to marginalise them as ‘political’ citizens is another. It is not possible for any nation to have a disgruntled population of 14 crore. Though, BJP is right in saying that all the decisions were passed by Parliament and kept in public domain from 2016 onwards. The issue even figured in the party’s manifesto, and hence, BJP cannot be blamed for pushing an agenda without letting the world know. But even then, the party needs to nuance the message. This brings us to the last aspect of the issue which is illegal immigration in the country. Centre will need to readdress it's strategy wherein the policy of identifying illegal immigrants does not turn into a witch hunt. During the infamous Emergency, the family control drive by Congress led to a severe political backlash for Indira Gandhi. Centre needs to be mindful of the issue. The call for nationwide NRC has even impacted the court-authored drive of NRC in Assam which was born out of Assam Accord authored by former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The North East continues to suffer illegal immigration from Bangladesh. The illegal Bangladeshi and Rohingya Muslims immigration is a real problem for India. It impacts demography and creates electoral anomalies. Illegal immigrants have changed the shape of constituencies in North East, West Bengal and even deep inside Jharkhand. But the argument of a national NRC has rattled the minorities. BJP will need to soothe the frayed nerves. (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

CAA and NRC protests: Addressing concerns of protesters a must for government

The world is watching violent scenes playing out in India and the reaction is not favourable. Many countries have raised concerns over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) while a UN agency calls it 'fundamentally discriminatory'.

On WION Edit, we discuss the implications of the debate and the protests.

The biggest culprit is politics. When you politicise NRC to win an election without consulting the stakeholders, you're asking for trouble.

The NRC exercise is a sensitive one, politics must have been kept out of it. Second, such decisions cannot be imposed. they impact lives.

The protests are proof that the indigenous people in these states were not consulted properly.

When decisions like the amendment in Citizenship Law are taken without consensus, they lead to chaos. Assam has already seen it in the late 70s and early 80s.

And then the Assam accord was signed. Now 34 years later, there are protests again. This exposes the fault lines in Indian politics.

Meanwhile, it is a constitutionally valid right to protest. Dissent, civil disobedience and protests - these are the bedrocks on which Indian democracy was founded and built.

But the protest has a limit and protesters have a responsibility, they cannot and should not resort to violence.

The moment you do that, you are on the wrong side of law and must face action.

Protesters must know they run the risk of being used as proxies by vested interests. Such interests can be political, they can be foreign as well.

Case in point-- the Jamia Millia University protests in Delhi.

The students were protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act and they have every right to do so. But when buses are burnt and public order is disrupted, then the police will step in - it's their job.

Did the police overstep? Did they use more force than was needed? why did they fire teargas in a college library? These are questions that must be thoroughly probed.

The Citizenship Amendment Act and the NRC are serious nuanced issues. They shouldn't be reduced to the police versus protesters situation.&nbsp;

The government that passes acts without due consultation, an opposition that wants to politicise 'sensitive' matters, trigger-happy leaders from all parties - ever too ready to stir the pot with 'volatile' comments, and a country whose economic growth is slipping - this is not a good combination.

Left unchecked, these protests could precipitate India's journey to doom. It's time for the government to be open - to listen to the protesters. It's also time for the courts to step in and take stern, quick decisions.

India's growth story was founded on peace, diversity and co-existence. All the stakeholders, and that includes the public, should keep their emotions in check.&nbsp;

Those who damage public property in the name of protests must be identified and booked. Those who use excessive force in uniform - must also face the music.

The first priority must be restoring public order. Because without peace, there can be no debate, no forward movement.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp;

The world is watching violent scenes playing out in India and the reaction is not favourable. Many countries have raised concerns over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) while a UN agency calls it 'fundamentally discriminatory'.

The world is watching violent scenes playing out in India and the reaction is not favourable. Many countries have raised concerns over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) while a UN agency calls it 'fundamentally discriminatory'. On WION Edit, we discuss the implications of the debate and the protests. The biggest culprit is politics. When you politicise NRC to win an election without consulting the stakeholders, you're asking for trouble. The NRC exercise is a sensitive one, politics must have been kept out of it. Second, such decisions cannot be imposed. they impact lives. The protests are proof that the indigenous people in these states were not consulted properly. When decisions like the amendment in Citizenship Law are taken without consensus, they lead to chaos. Assam has already seen it in the late 70s and early 80s. And then the Assam accord was signed. Now 34 years later, there are protests again. This exposes the fault lines in Indian politics. Meanwhile, it is a constitutionally valid right to protest. Dissent, civil disobedience and protests - these are the bedrocks on which Indian democracy was founded and built. But the protest has a limit and protesters have a responsibility, they cannot and should not resort to violence. The moment you do that, you are on the wrong side of law and must face action. Protesters must know they run the risk of being used as proxies by vested interests. Such interests can be political, they can be foreign as well. Case in point-- the Jamia Millia University protests in Delhi. The students were protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act and they have every right to do so. But when buses are burnt and public order is disrupted, then the police will step in - it's their job. Did the police overstep? Did they use more force than was needed? why did they fire teargas in a college library? These are questions that must be thoroughly probed. The Citizenship Amendment Act and the NRC are serious nuanced issues. They shouldn't be reduced to the police versus protesters situation. The government that passes acts without due consultation, an opposition that wants to politicise 'sensitive' matters, trigger-happy leaders from all parties - ever too ready to stir the pot with 'volatile' comments, and a country whose economic growth is slipping - this is not a good combination. Left unchecked, these protests could precipitate India's journey to doom. It's time for the government to be open - to listen to the protesters. It's also time for the courts to step in and take stern, quick decisions. India's growth story was founded on peace, diversity and co-existence. All the stakeholders, and that includes the public, should keep their emotions in check. Those who damage public property in the name of protests must be identified and booked. Those who use excessive force in uniform - must also face the music. The first priority must be restoring public order. Because without peace, there can be no debate, no forward movement. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Without peace, there can be no debate

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