Q3(c)(iv). What are the Constitutional provisions for acquiring Indian citizenship?

Citizenship in India is governed by Articles 5 to 11 and the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Modes of Acquiring Citizenship

• By birth – for persons born in India under conditions specified in amendments.
• By descent – if born abroad to Indian parents.
• By registration – for persons of Indian origin or those married to Indian citizens.
• By naturalisation – after fulfilling residency requirements.
• By incorporation of territory – when new territory becomes part of India.

Since 2003, India does not allow automatic birth citizenship and has tightened criteria to prevent illegal migration.

The CAA 2019 introduced special provisions for certain persecuted minorities from neighbouring countries.