Bengaluru:  As a few European lawmakers moved a resolution against India for its move to grant citizenship to the non-Muslim persecuted minorities of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, the European Union has distanced itself from the move, saying it is not its official position. 

France, a member of the EU had categorically stated that the CAA is India’s internal matter and doesn’t like to comment on it. India also used its diplomatic prowess to neutralise the resolution with the help of its Belgium ambassador, Gaitri Issar Kumar, to convey India’s stand.

What’s noteworthy is that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla also wrote a strong-worded letter to the Chairperson of the European Parliament, underlining the importance of upholding a country’s sovereignty and the EU resolution would mean disrespect to India’s Parliament. 

 

As quoted by Indian Express, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, the EU Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy said, “Let me also remind you that the opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its Members do not represent the official position of the European Union. The EU will host its 15th Summit with India on the 13th March 2020 in Brussels, with a view to strengthening its Strategic Partnership with India. India is a key partner for the EU to address global challenges and to jointly promote the rules-based multilateral order.”

The CAA intends to grant citizenship to non-Muslims who have been residing in India before December 31, 2014. It is to be stressed that the Act is facilitator to ensure persecuted minorities integrate with India on a social and emotional basis and doesn’t snatch the rights of anyone. 

Though the PM and Union home minister Amit Shah have made is amply clear, the Congress and its coterie continue to spread lies on the Act, thereby spreading fear and animosity among Indian Muslims.