CM Majhi Hands Over Indian Citizenship Certificates To 35 Refugees Of Odisha’s Nabarangpur

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday handed over certificates of Indian citizenship to 35 refugees residing in Nabarangpur district.

The citizenship, under the provisions of Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019, was awarded to individuals who had migrated to India from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Speaking at the certificate distribution ceremony, organised at Krushi Bhawan, Majhi said that the CAA has provided a path of hope and reassurance for those persecuted for years.

Welcoming the new citizens, Majhi assured them of their security, respect and progress.

“People from Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian communities who have been living here can apply so that the Centre, state government and administration can take steps to provide them with citizenship. With this, they are now entitled to all constitutional rights, benefits, and government facilities available to Indian citizens. They will also be guided to abide by the law like a regular citizen of this country,” Majhi said.

Taking to X, the Odisha CM wrote: “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the brothers and sisters who have newly acquired citizenship. You are now an inseparable part of our Indian family. From today, you are entitled to all citizen rights and benefits. I hope that you will play an active role in the social and economic development of Odisha as well as India through your dedication, hard work, and cultural skills. The state government is fully committed to your happiness, prosperity, and security.”

Census Director Nikhil Pavan Kalyan thanked CM Majhi.

“The issues that had been pertaining since years, after the CAA Act, we have finally given citizenship to at least 35 of the refugees. I thank Chief Minister for taking time, because this is an important aspect. Many people who are yet to apply for citizenship will apply now after seeing the CM so that we can give more citizenship to more number of people after necessary verification,” said Kalyan.

Union minister Suresh Pujari and state minister Prithviraj Harichandan were also present at the function.