Gandhinagar: In a significant event, 56 Pakistani nationals received Indian citizenship certificates in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. The ceremony was presided over by Gujarat’s Minister of State for Home, Harsh Sanghavi, who emphasized the government’s commitment to helping migrants integrate and contribute to Indian society.
According to an official release, between 2017 and 2024, a total of 1,223 Pakistani nationals from minority communities, including Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, and others, have been granted Indian citizenship under the provisions of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).
Addressing the new citizens at the event, Sanghavi said, “Today, you can make India your land of work, even though you were born in Pakistan. Many families who migrated here have achieved success in various fields, and their children are excelling in higher education. The Central and state governments are committed to providing a new identity and secure future for such families.”
The ceremony, held at a special camp, was attended by notable figures including MLAs Payal Kukrani, Amul Bhatt, Amit Shah, Dinesh Kushwaha, and Babusingh Jadav. Other dignitaries such as Deputy Mayor of Ahmedabad Jatin Patel and Devang Dani, Chairman of the Standing Committee of Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation, were also present.
Several recipients shared their experiences, expressing gratitude to the government for its efforts in facilitating their transition to Indian citizenship. They lauded the steps taken to provide them with a sense of belonging and stability after years of uncertainty.
