As India continues to host the largest diaspora population globally, discussions have intensified on whether true dual citizenship—beyond the current Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) framework—could better serve India’s diaspora strategy and global aspirations.

Understanding Dual Citizenship

Dual citizenship confers legal nationality in two countries simultaneously, allowing individuals to:

• Hold multiple passports

• Vote and run for public office (depending on the host country’s laws)

• Enjoy visa-free travel, employment rights, and property ownership in both nations

India currently does not permit dual citizenship, offering instead the OCI card, which provides limited privileges to foreign citizens of Indian origin.

The Case For Dual Citizenship

1. India’s Global Diaspora Footprint

• Over 3.5 crore Indians live abroad, making it the largest diaspora in the world.

• India received USD 129 billion in remittances in 2024, significantly exceeding foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows (USD 42 billion).

• Engaging this population more deeply could further bolster economic and soft power gains.

2. Limitations of the OCI Framework

• The OCI is not equivalent to full citizenship. It does not provide political rights, such as voting or contesting elections.

• OCI holders cannot buy agricultural land in India and are subject to unilateral revocation without legal recourse.

• Many diaspora members view the OCI as a privilege without permanence, undermining their sense of inclusion and belonging.

3. Evolving Global Realities

• With countries like the United States reviewing birthright citizenship, global migration policies are hardening.

• Indians abroad are increasingly forced to renounce Indian citizenship to secure permanent rights abroad—often a deeply emotional and symbolic loss.

• Genuine dual citizenship would soften this trade-off, helping maintain stronger ties with the homeland.

4. Strategic and Soft Power Considerations

• An internationally rooted yet Indian-aligned citizenry could:

  • Enhance India’s soft power

  • Promote diaspora investments

  • Strengthen India’s voice in global institutions

  • Serve as informal ambassadors of Indian culture and interests

5. International Precedents

• Countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, France, the UK, and Germany allow dual or multiple citizenships, often with regulatory safeguards.

• India could explore a calibrated legal model tailored to its unique security and demographic context.

Arguments Against Dual Citizenship

1. Constitutional Prohibition

• Article 9 of the Indian Constitution states that an Indian citizen who voluntarily acquires foreign citizenship automatically loses Indian citizenship.

• A constitutional amendment would be required to change this.

2. Democratic Integrity and Sovereignty

• Citizenship implies exclusive loyalty. Allowing dual citizens to vote or hold public office raises concerns about divided allegiance.

• Critics argue that political participation must remain exclusive to full citizens to protect democratic legitimacy.

3. Risks of Political Instrumentalism

• Experts warn of the emergence of a “comprador class”—individuals leveraging dual nationality for personal gain without genuine national loyalty.

• Diaspora lobbying or foreign influence could interfere in domestic policy and elections.

4. Security and Legal Grey Zones

• India’s strict citizenship norms were shaped by post-Partition sensitivities.

• Dual citizenship could complicate legal proceedings, especially in national security cases involving individuals holding foreign protection.

5. Sufficient Diaspora Engagement Tools Already Exist

• The OCI framework, along with investment routes, scholarships, and cultural programs, already enables significant engagement without compromising sovereignty.

Middle-Path Reforms: Bridging the Gap

Recognizing both aspirations and concerns, India can consider graduated reforms that strengthen diaspora ties without altering constitutional fundamentals:

1. Strengthen the OCI Framework

• Enhance legal protections and procedural transparency in granting, revoking, or renewing OCI status.

• Allow ownership of non-agricultural land, simplified business setups, and access to services for OCI holders under regulated categories.

2. Enable Limited Political Participation

• Permit OCIs to participate at the local governance level (e.g., panchayats), where their expertise can aid in development without impacting national security.

• At the national level, involve diaspora voices through non-political advisory platforms like the Global Indian Network of Knowledge (Global-INK).

3. Expand Cultural Engagement

• Broaden initiatives like:

  • Tracing the Roots Program

  • Know India Programme

  • Scholarships for diaspora youth

• These programs promote cultural reconnection, heritage pride, and a sustained emotional link with India.

4. Consider Selective Dual Citizenship

• If India chooses to pilot dual citizenship in the future, it could:

  • Restrict it to citizens from trusted strategic partner countries

  • Impose exclusions for sensitive roles (defense, intelligence, constitutional offices)

  • Develop reciprocal treaties ensuring mutual obligations and legal parity