Deepender Singh Hooda, a Congress MP, has requested for non-resident Indians (NRIs) to have representation in Parliament during a recent meeting of the parliamentary committee on external affairs. This is due to the increasing population of NRIs and the unique challenges they face, as well as examples from other countries such as Italy that provide legislative seats for citizens residing overseas. This move could address issues specific to the Indian diaspora, as highlighted by Hooda and various organizations from regions like Kerala and Punjab. Currently, NRIs are considered as 'overseas electors' and do not have voting rights from abroad, but Hooda argues that they deserve to be included in Parliament as the diaspora grows in numbers. However, the issue of proxy voting for NRIs has not been resolved since a 2018 bill lapsed.
Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) Seek Representation in Indian Parliament
Background
The Indian diaspora, consisting of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), has been a significant contributor to the country's economy and culture. As their numbers have steadily increased, there has been a growing demand for greater representation in the Indian political system.
Recent Developments
In a recent meeting of the parliamentary committee on external affairs, Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda proposed that NRIs be given representation in Parliament. This move is supported by several organizations representing the Indian diaspora, such as those from Kerala and Punjab.
Hooda argued that the increasing population of NRIs and the unique challenges they face warrant their inclusion in Parliament. He cited examples from countries like Italy that provide legislative seats for citizens residing overseas.
Currently, NRIs are considered as 'overseas electors' but do not have voting rights from abroad. Hooda believes that this needs to change as the diaspora grows in numbers.
Proxy Voting Issue
One hurdle to NRI representation in Parliament is the issue of proxy voting. A bill introduced in 2018 to allow proxy voting for NRIs lapsed without becoming law. The issue has not yet been fully resolved.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
Q1: Why do NRIs need representation in Parliament?
A1: NRIs contribute significantly to India's economy and culture, and they face unique challenges that are not fully understood or addressed by current political representatives.
Q2: What examples are there of NRI representation in other countries?
A2: Italy, for instance, provides legislative seats for citizens residing overseas, giving them a voice in the decision-making process of their home country.
Q3: Can NRIs vote in Indian elections?
A3: Currently, NRIs are not allowed to vote from abroad. However, they are considered 'overseas electors' and can register to vote if they are in India during elections.
Q4: Is proxy voting an option for NRIs?
A4: A bill to allow proxy voting for NRIs lapsed in 2018. The issue has yet to be fully resolved.
Q5: What are the arguments against NRI representation?
A5: Some argue that NRIs are not sufficiently connected to India's current affairs and challenges to make informed decisions in Parliament. Others question the logistics and feasibility of representing a diverse and widely dispersed diaspora population.
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