Which authority decides citizenship for people in newly added territories?

The correct answer is Union Government.

Key Points

• The Union Government is responsible for deciding citizenship in newly added territories to India as per the provisions of the Constitution and relevant laws.
• Article 11 of the Indian Constitution empowers Parliament to regulate the right of citizenship by law.
• The Citizenship Act of 1955, enacted by the Union Government, lays out the legal framework for acquiring, renouncing, and determining citizenship in India.
• In cases where new territories are added to India, the Union Government decides citizenship based on the provisions outlined in the Citizenship Act.
• International agreements or treaties governing territorial addition may also influence citizenship decisions, which are implemented by the Union Government.

Additional Information

• Article 5-11 of the Indian Constitution:
  • These articles govern citizenship provisions in India.
  • Article 11 explicitly empowers Parliament to make laws regulating citizenship.
• The Citizenship Act, 1955:
  • It is the primary law governing citizenship in India.
  • It includes provisions for citizenship by birth, descent, registration, naturalization, and incorporation of territory.
• Incorporation of Territory:
  • When a new territory is added to India, its residents may be granted Indian citizenship based on legal provisions.
  • The Union Government decides the criteria and implementation process for granting citizenship.
• International Treaties and Agreements:
  • Territorial additions often occur due to international agreements or treaties.
  • The Union Government ensures compliance with these agreements while determining citizenship for affected residents.
• Judicial Oversight:
  • In case of disputes or challenges, the Supreme Court of India may interpret constitutional provisions related to citizenship.
  • However, the primary authority remains with the Union Government.