Why Have Nearly 9 Lakh Indians Given Up Their Citizenship in the Last 5 Years?
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Synopsis
In a shocking revelation, the Ministry of External Affairs disclosed that nearly 9 lakh Indians have renounced their citizenship in the past five years. This striking trend raises questions about the motivations and implications behind such significant expatriate movements. Explore the official data, reasons, and the government's response to this concerning issue.
Key Takeaways
- 9 lakh Indians renounced citizenship in the last five years.
- Significant increase in citizenship renunciations over the years.
- Government maintains records and provides support for expatriates.
- Saudi Arabia has the highest number of complaints among Indians abroad.
- Legal assistance is available for Indian citizens through embassies.
New Delhi, Dec 11 (NationPress) The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) disclosed in Parliament on Thursday that approximately 9 lakh Indians have relinquished their citizenship over the previous five years, continuing a pattern of a significant number of expatriates choosing foreign nationalities.
In response to a query in the Rajya Sabha, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh mentioned that the government keeps annual records of those who renounce Indian citizenship.
As per the official statistics shared in the written reply, the number of citizenship renunciations has surged dramatically over the last five years—from 85,256 in 2020, 1,63,370 in 2021, 2,25,620 in 2022, 2,16,219 in 2023, to 2,06,378 in 2024.
Interestingly, between 2011 and 2019, a total of 11,89,194 Indians renounced their citizenship.
The data indicates that 1,22,819 individuals did so in 2011; 1,20,923 in 2012; 1,31,405 in 2013; 1,29,328 in 2014; 1,31,489 in 2015; 1,41,603 in 2016; 1,33,049 in 2017; 1,34,561 in 2018; and 1,44,017 in 2019.
In another response regarding the number of grievances received from Indians residing abroad during 2024–25, the MoS revealed that the MEA registered 16,127 complaints.
The complaints were logged through the government's online grievance platforms, with MADAD accounting for 11,195 cases and CPGRAMS receiving 4,932 cases.
Saudi Arabia led the list of nations reporting the highest number of distress cases, with 3,049 complaints, followed by the UAE with 1,587, Malaysia with 662, the US with 620, Oman with 613, Kuwait with 549, Canada with 345, Australia with 318, the UK with 299, and Qatar with 289.
The Minister emphasized that India has a strong and multi-channel mechanism for addressing grievances, utilizing emergency helplines, in-person visits, social media, and 24×7 multilingual support. Most cases, he noted, are resolved quickly through direct communication, mediation with employers, and collaboration with foreign authorities.
Delays in a minority of cases were linked to incomplete information, lack of cooperation from employers, and limitations on the role of Indian missions in ongoing legal matters.
Singh pointed out that Indian embassies extend legal support through empaneled lawyers, backed by the Indian Community Welfare Fund.
He affirmed that the protection of migrant workers remains a priority, with Pravasi Bharatiya Sahayata Kendras and consular camps providing guidance and outreach in crucial areas.
Point of View
It's imperative to acknowledge the complexities of the recent data presented by the Ministry of External Affairs. While the renunciation of citizenship by nearly 9 lakh Indians may seem alarming, it reflects broader socio-economic trends and an evolving global landscape. Understanding these factors is crucial for shaping our national policies and ensuring the welfare of our expatriates.
NationPress
11/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total number of Indians who renounced their citizenship in the last 5 years?
Nearly 9 lakh Indians have renounced their citizenship in the past five years, as reported by the Ministry of External Affairs.
What are the main reasons for Indians renouncing their citizenship?
Reasons may vary, including better opportunities abroad, lifestyle choices, and family ties, though specific motivations require further investigation.
How does the government track citizenship renunciations?
The government maintains year-wise records of individuals who surrender Indian citizenship, which is reported to Parliament.
What support does the government provide to Indians living abroad?
The Ministry has a robust grievance redressal mechanism, including helplines, online platforms, and legal assistance through empaneled lawyers.
Which countries reported the highest number of complaints from Indians abroad?
Saudi Arabia topped the list, followed by the UAE, Malaysia, the US, Oman, and several others.
