Born in India, but not Indian: 'Stateless' man fights for citizenship
Summary
A man named Bahison Ravindran, born in India to Sri Lankan refugee parents, is seeking Indian citizenship. Due to a law change in 1987, he does not automatically qualify as an Indian citizen since neither of his parents is Indian. His situation highlights the challenges faced by many Sri Lankan Tamil refugees in India who remain without citizenship.Key Facts
- Bahison Ravindran was born in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu to Sri Lankan refugee parents.
- Although he held an Indian passport, authorities recently declared it invalid, citing his parent's refugee status.
- Indian law requires at least one parent to be an Indian citizen for children born after 1 July 1987 to automatically receive citizenship.
- Ravindran applied for citizenship through naturalisation after learning his status was not automatic.
- There are over 22,000 individuals in similar situations, born in India to Sri Lankan Tamil parents after 1987.
- India does not sign the 1951 UN Refugee Convention and regards Sri Lankan refugees as illegal migrants.
- The 2019 Citizenship Amendment Act does not assist Tamils from Sri Lanka in gaining Indian citizenship.
- Ravindran was arrested for holding an invalid Indian passport and released on bail; he is now seeking legal help to resolve his status.
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