Amit Shah Announces Exemption for Non-Muslim Migrants From Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan Under CAA

New Delhi: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday announced a significant policy clarification under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), exempting certain non-Muslim migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan from the requirement of having valid travel documents, provided they entered India on or before December 31, 2014. Those without valid papers who do not belong to the exempted groups may face detention.

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Nov 21, 2025 - 13:56

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Amit Shah Announces Exemption for Non-Muslim Migrants From Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan Under CAA

Who Is Exempt?

The exemption applies specifically to Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians who fled religious persecution in the three neighboring countries. These individuals are now allowed to stay in India without the usual passport or visa requirements.

Amit Shah emphasized that the government will facilitate a citizenship pathway for these migrants. Under the CAA, the residency requirement for eligible non-Muslim refugees to apply for Indian citizenship has been reduced from 11 years to 5 years, making it easier for persecuted minorities to regularize their status.

Implications for Others

Migrants who do not belong to the exempted communities and lack valid documentation may face detention as “infiltrators”, in accordance with India’s general immigration laws. The Home Minister clarified that the law does not affect the citizenship of Indian Muslims and is intended solely to provide relief to persecuted religious minorities.

Official Order

The exemption has been formalized through a Home Ministry order under the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025, which enshrines the relaxation of documentation requirements and provides a clear legal framework for affected migrants to apply for citizenship.

Government’s Assurance

Shah stressed that the CAA is a humanitarian law, designed to protect minorities who have fled persecution. “This is not a law to take away anyone’s citizenship. It is meant to safeguard those who need protection,” he said.

The announcement comes as the government seeks to clarify the legal and administrative aspects of the CAA, reassuring affected communities while emphasizing strict measures for other undocumented migrants.