The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has introduced stricter regulations for Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), enabling the cancellation of registration in cases involving serious criminal convictions or charges.
According to the latest notification under Section 7D of the Citizenship Act, 1955, an OCI card can be revoked if the holder is:
- Sentenced to imprisonment for a period of two years or more, or
- Charge-sheeted for an offence that carries a maximum punishment of at least seven years.
Officials have clarified that these provisions apply regardless of whether the offence occurred in India or abroad, as long as it is recognised under Indian law.
Purpose of the Amendment
The government says the changes aim to strengthen the legal framework overseeing OCI status, which offers several benefits to people of Indian origin who hold foreign citizenship, including long-term residency and visa-free entry into India.
About the OCI Scheme
Launched in August 2005, the OCI scheme is open to foreign nationals who were Indian citizens on or after January 26, 1950, or were eligible for citizenship on that date. The scheme grants multiple-entry, multi-purpose lifelong visas to visit India, along with certain residency privileges.
The new provisions are expected to add a layer of accountability to the scheme, ensuring that individuals enjoying OCI privileges comply with Indian laws both domestically and internationally.