Can Minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan Live in India Without a Passport Until December 2024?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant move, the Indian government allows minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan to stay in India without passports until December 2024. This policy aims to protect those fleeing religious persecution, marking a pivotal moment for humanitarian efforts in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan can stay in India until December 2024.
- Exemption applies to those entering with or without valid documents.
- Welcomed by the BJP as a humanitarian step.
- Similar provisions for long-standing residents from Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.
- Exemptions also for military personnel and their families.
New Delhi, Sep 3 (NationPress) A member of the minority community, including Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian from neighboring countries such as Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, who were forced to seek refuge in India due to religious persecution or the fear of it, and entered the country on or before December 31, 2024—regardless of valid documentation including passports—will be free from any legal repercussions, as stated in a government announcement.
This declaration, which permits non-Muslim minority migrants to remain in India without passports, has been incorporated into the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2024, effective from its notification on September 1 (Monday).
This move has been positively received and widely endorsed by the BJP, as it opens avenues for oppressed minorities from neighboring nations seeking solace in India—a principle promoted by the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar labeled it “a genuine step towards justice and humanity.”
In a post on X, he remarked, “In a landmark decision, the Government of India has permitted minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan—Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian—who entered India on or before December 31, 2024 due to religious persecution, to stay even without valid documentation. A true step towards justice and humanity!”
Furthermore, under the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) Order 2025, citizens of Nepal and Bhutan, along with Tibetans who entered India between 1959 and May 2003 with a special entry permit and are registered with the foreign registration officer, have received similar leniency.
The notification also states that members of the Navy, military, and Air Forces entering India on duty, as well as their accompanying family members using government transport, will be exempt from the Immigration and Foreigners Act. Additionally, foreigners holding diplomatic passports will not need a visa.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the humanitarian aspect of the Indian government's decision to allow minorities from neighboring countries to stay without valid documents. This approach reflects a commitment to justice and compassion, aligning with our nation's values, especially during times of crisis.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for the exemption under the new regulation?
Members of minority communities including Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who entered India on or before December 31, 2024, qualify for the exemption.
What is the duration of the exemption?
The exemption applies to individuals who entered India on or before December 31, 2024.
Will these individuals face legal repercussions?
No, those who entered India under this exemption will be free from any legal repercussions regarding their immigration status.
Are there similar provisions for other communities?
Yes, similar relaxations have been extended to citizens of Nepal, Bhutan, and registered Tibetans who entered India between 1959 and May 2003.
What about members of the military or their families?
Members of the Navy, military, and Air Forces entering India on duty and their families accompanying them will also receive exemptions under the Immigration and Foreigners Act.
