Washington, Jan 12 (NationPress) The Indian diaspora is crucial for enhancing India's international reputation; however, matters like dual citizenship and voting rights necessitate careful consideration due to India’s distinct geopolitical and constitutional landscape, stated senior BJP leader Ram Madhav.

While speaking at an interaction organized by the Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP), Madhav recognized the emotional and political ties that Indians abroad maintain with Mother India. He remarked, “Your minds may operate here, but your hearts are in Bharat,” addressing an audience comprising numerous US citizens and permanent residents.

In response to queries about India's reluctance to provide dual citizenship and voting privileges to non-resident Indians (NRIs), Madhav explained that the situation is significantly more intricate than it seems.

He cited issues like territorial disputes, geopolitical challenges, and regional security threats.

Madhav noted that granting citizenship might lead to unforeseen repercussions. “When you grant citizenship, regardless of whether it applies to them or not, numerous other complexities arise,” he remarked.

Instead, Madhav mentioned that India has broadened the benefits under the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) scheme. “This offers a plethora of benefits already, aside from the right to vote,” he added, while also recognizing that additional facilities could be explored.

“More can be extended as per your demands. If you seek anything additional, that can be contemplated as well,” he noted, describing the current government as “very, very accommodating to NRIs.”

Madhav asserted that the BJP government has consistently addressed the concerns of its diaspora.

When asked about illegal immigration issues, including worries regarding undocumented migrants entering India, Madhav assured that the government is taking discreet yet firm action. “We are accomplishing more while publicizing less,” he stated.

“Certain matters must be addressed appropriately,” he added, avoiding specific figures. “Rest assured that the concern you harbor is matched tenfold by those within the government.”

Madhav contrasted India’s method with what he described as superficial politics seen in other regions. “We are doing more and propagating less,” he insisted.

He called for patience in dealing with delicate diaspora-related matters, indicating that not everything should be publicly discussed. “Not everything needs to be expressed openly,” he emphasized.

Madhav also warned against aggressive stances in international relations, arguing that India’s global credibility is built on restraint. “Assertiveness must be responsible; it cannot be aggressive,” he stated.

He highlighted that India’s independent foreign policy has garnered global esteem. “You’ll be surprised to learn that 40 countries have emulated us,” he remarked, referring to India’s neutral positions on significant global conflicts.

Madhav pointed out that the Indian diaspora has become a cornerstone of India-US relations. “Indian Americans play a vital role in this relationship,” he stated, noting that the community has now grown to over four million.

It is noteworthy that India has progressively enhanced its engagement with its overseas populace through OCI schemes, investment initiatives, and political interactions, while stopping short of granting dual citizenship.

The influence of the diaspora has surged in nations such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, shaping the global perception of India’s ascent. One of the defining features of the Modi government is its active engagement with the diaspora.