Refugees who fled their own countries to escape persecution and death and came to India with the hope of a better future are facing repatriation or a fugitive's life here. There are thousands of persons both Hindus and Muslims who have come from Afghanistan,Bangladesh, Burma,Pakistan,Srilanka and Tibet and are settled in Rajasthan,HP,W.Bengal.Assam,Manipur,Delhi and Karnataka but who are not eligible for any legal rights. They cannot buy property,rations or freely travel in India. Their children cannot study beyond 10th or apply for government jobs. They are not entitled for electricity connection or open bank accounts.
The Supreme Court has extended the protection of Fundamental Rights under The Constitution to include foreign citizens also.
India is a signatory to the International convention on refugees but does not adhere to any of its terms and conditions. It always takes a high moral ground in protesting against violation of rights of foreign nationals but discriminates against refugees living in India.
There is a need for a serious debate about the rights of persons of Indian origin who desire to live in the land of their forefathers!
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