Article 8 of the Indian Constitution pertains to the citizenship rights of individuals of Indian origin residing outside India.

Eligibility Criteria

Despite the provisions outlined in Article 5, individuals who were born in India or whose parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents were born in India as defined by the Government of India Act, 1935, and who are currently residing in a foreign country on a temporary basis, shall be considered citizens of India. This citizenship shall be deemed to have been registered with the Indian government through diplomatic or consular representation of India in that country, either before or after the commencement of this Constitution, upon application by such diplomatic or consular representatives.

Interpretation

This provision extends citizenship rights to individuals of Indian descent who may not currently reside in India but have ancestral ties to the country. It acknowledges the diaspora’s connection to India and ensures that they can claim Indian citizenship through a formal registration process facilitated by Indian diplomatic or consular missions abroad.

Significance

Article 8 serves to recognize and include individuals of Indian origin living abroad within the ambit of Indian citizenship. It acknowledges their cultural, historical, and ancestral links to India, thereby fostering a sense of belonging and connection among the global Indian community.