CAA Rules: Supreme Court Sets Date to Review All Assam Students' Union's Plea

The constitutional legitimacy of the March 24, 1971, midnight deadline is for identifying and deporting foreign nationals according to the Assam Accord

Digital Desk: In a pivotal development, the Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing to consider the All Assam Students' Union's (AASU) petition concerning the repeal of rules associated with the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 (CAA). The CAA, an amendment to the Citizenship Act of 1955, offers a fast-track pathway to Indian citizenship for migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, or Pakistan who have faced religious persecution, excluding Muslims and other non-specified communities.

Headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, a three-judge bench will preside over the hearing, slated for April 9. This hearing will be on an application submitted by the AASU about the CAA.

Utpal Sharma, President of the AASU, emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue, stating, "Regardless of inclusion in the National Register of Citizens (NRC), immigrants arriving in Assam after March 24, 1971, cannot be granted citizenship. We advocate for an accurate and error-free NRC." This statement underscores the AASU's steadfast commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the NRC and addressing concerns related to citizenship rights in Assam.

The constitutional legitimacy of the March 24, 1971, midnight deadline is for identifying and deporting foreign nationals according to the Assam Accord. This day was decided upon when the Assam Accord was signed in August 1985, ending a violent six-year campaign in the state against foreigners.