Dive into the intricacies of Indian citizenship with our comprehensive guide! Our collection of 100 complex multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with detailed answers and explanations covers Citizenship (Articles 5-11) and the Citizenship Act 1955. From understanding the constitutional provisions to analyzing the legal framework, our MCQs will test your knowledge on acquisition, termination, and nuances of citizenship. Perfect for UPSC CSE Prelims aspirants, our questions and answers will help you master the complexities of citizenship laws and boost your confidence for the exam.
MCQs and Answers on Citizenship (Articles 5–11, Citizenship Act 1955)
Article 5 of the Indian Constitution deals with:
(a) Citizenship by birth
(b) Citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution
(c) Citizenship by registration
(d) Citizenship by naturalization
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Article 5 describes who was considered a citizen of India at the time the Constitution came into effect on January 26, 1950.
Which article of the Indian Constitution empowers the Parliament to make laws to provide for the acquisition and termination of citizenship?
(a) Article 9
(b) Article 10
(c) Article 11
(d) Article 5
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Article 11 explicitly gives Parliament the power to enact laws related to citizenship.
A person born in India on or after January 26, 1950, but before July 1, 1987, is a citizen of India:
(a) If either of his/her parents is a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth.
(b) If his/her father is a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth.
(c) Irrespective of the nationality of his/her parents.
(d) Only if both parents are citizens of India.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: As per the Citizenship Act, 1955, in its original form, anyone born in India during this period was a citizen by birth.
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Article 6 of the Indian Constitution?
- It deals with the rights of citizenship of certain persons who have migrated to India from Pakistan.
- It applies to those who migrated before July 19, 1948.
- It applies to those who migrated on or after July 19, 1948.
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Article 6 makes special provisions for those who migrated from Pakistan due to the Partition, and differentiates between those who migrated before and after July 19, 1948, prescribing different conditions for each.
Article 7 of the Indian Constitution deals with:
(a) Rights of citizenship of certain migrants to Pakistan.
(b) Rights of citizenship of persons of Indian origin residing outside India.
(c) Citizenship by naturalization.
(d) Citizenship by registration.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Article 7 addresses the citizenship status of those who migrated to Pakistan after March 1, 1947, but later returned to India.
Which article of the Indian Constitution confers citizenship rights on certain persons of Indian origin residing outside India?
(a) Article 5
(b) Article 6
(c) Article 8
(d) Article 9
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Article 8 grants citizenship rights to Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) living abroad, provided certain conditions are met.
Article 9 of the Indian Constitution states that:
(a) No person shall be a citizen of India if he has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of any foreign state.
(b) All persons born in India shall be citizens of India.
(c) Parliament shall have the power to make any provision with respect to the acquisition and termination of citizenship.
(d) The State shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Article 9 clearly prohibits dual citizenship, stating that voluntarily acquiring another country’s citizenship results in the loss of Indian citizenship.
According to Article 10 of the Indian Constitution, the citizenship of a person shall be subject to:
(a) Any law that may be made by the State Legislature.
(b) Any law that may be made by the Parliament.
(c) The pleasure of the President of India.
(d) A resolution passed by the Supreme Court of India.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Article 10 ensures the continuance of citizenship rights, but these rights are subject to any laws made by the Parliament.
The Citizenship Act, 1955, provides for the acquisition of citizenship by:
- Birth
- Descent
- Registration
- Naturalization
Which of the above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Citizenship Act, 1955, lays down five ways of acquiring citizenship: birth, descent, registration, naturalization, and incorporation of territory.
Which of the following is NOT a way of acquiring citizenship under the Citizenship Act, 1955?
(a) Birth
(b) Descent
(c) Registration
(d) Inheritance
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Inheritance is not a recognized mode of acquiring citizenship under the Citizenship Act, 1955.
Citizenship by descent means that a person acquires citizenship:
(a) By being born in India.
(b) Through the citizenship of his/her parents.
(c) By residing in India for a specified period.
(d) By marrying an Indian citizen.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Citizenship by descent is acquired based on the citizenship status of one’s parents or ancestors.
A person can acquire citizenship by registration if he/she is:
- A person of Indian origin who is ordinarily resident in India for seven years before applying.
- A person who is married to a citizen of India and is ordinarily resident in India for seven years before applying.
- A minor child of persons who are citizens of India.
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: All the given conditions are valid grounds for acquiring citizenship by registration as per the Citizenship Act, 1955.
Citizenship by naturalization can be acquired by a person who:
(a) Is born in India.
(b) Is of Indian origin.
(c) Is ordinarily resident in India for twelve years.
(d) Is a minor child of an Indian citizen.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: One of the essential conditions for acquiring citizenship by naturalization is that the person must have been ordinarily resident in India for twelve years (including the 12 months immediately preceding the date of application).
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the acquisition of citizenship by incorporation of territory?
(a) It is a way for individuals to acquire citizenship.
(b) It occurs when a foreign territory becomes part of India.
(c) It is a process for registering as a citizen.
(d) It is the same as acquiring citizenship by naturalization.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: When a new territory is incorporated into India, the government specifies the persons from that territory who shall become Indian citizens.
The Citizenship Act, 1955, provides for the termination of citizenship by:
- Renunciation
- Termination
- Deprivation
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Citizenship Act, 1955, specifies three ways in which a person’s citizenship can be terminated: renunciation, termination, and deprivation.
Renunciation of citizenship means:
(a) The government terminates a person’s citizenship.
(b) A person voluntarily gives up his/her Indian citizenship.
(c) A person’s citizenship automatically ends upon acquiring foreign citizenship.
(d) A person is deprived of citizenship due to disloyalty.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Renunciation is the voluntary act of giving up one’s citizenship.
Termination of citizenship occurs when:
(a) The government decides to revoke a person’s citizenship.
(b) A person voluntarily gives up his/her Indian citizenship.
(c) A person voluntarily acquires the citizenship of another country.
(d) A person is born outside India to Indian parents.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Termination of citizenship happens automatically when an Indian citizen voluntarily acquires the citizenship of another country.
Deprivation of citizenship means:
(a) A person voluntarily gives up his/her Indian citizenship.
(b) A person’s citizenship automatically ends upon acquiring foreign citizenship.
(c) The government compulsorily terminates a person’s citizenship.
(d) A person is born outside India to Indian parents.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Deprivation is the compulsory termination of citizenship by the government under specific circumstances.
Which of the following is NOT a ground for deprivation of citizenship by the government?
(a) If the citizenship was obtained by fraud.
(b) If the citizen has shown disloyalty to the Constitution of India.
(c) If the citizen has been ordinarily resident out of India for a continuous period of seven years.
(d) If the citizen criticizes the government.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Criticizing the government is not a ground for deprivation of citizenship. The other options are valid grounds.
Dual citizenship is:
(a) Permitted under the Indian Constitution.
(b) Permitted under certain circumstances as specified by the Citizenship Act, 1955.
(c) Not permitted under the Indian Constitution.
(d) Permitted only for Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs).
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Indian Constitution does not allow dual citizenship. Article 9 clearly states that no person shall be a citizen of India if he has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of any foreign state.
The concept of Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) was introduced by which amendment to the Citizenship Act, 1955?
(a) Citizenship Amendment Act, 1986
(b) Citizenship Amendment Act, 1992
(c) Citizenship Amendment Act, 2003
(d) Citizenship Amendment Act, 2005
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The concept of OCI was introduced by the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2003.
An Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder is entitled to:
(a) The right to vote in Indian elections.
(b) The right to hold constitutional posts.
(c) Multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India.
(d) The right to acquire agricultural land in India.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: OCI cardholders are granted a multiple-entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India. They do not have the rights mentioned in the other options.
Which of the following is NOT a privilege granted to an OCI cardholder?
(a) Parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in economic, financial, and educational fields.
(b) Exemption from registration with local police authorities for any length of stay in India.
(c) The right to contest elections.
(d) The right to acquire properties other than agricultural land.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: OCI cardholders do not have the right to contest elections.
The Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card scheme was merged with the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card scheme in:
(a) 2005
(b) 2010
(c) 2015
(d) 2020
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The PIO card scheme was merged with the OCI card scheme in 2015.
The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 grants citizenship to illegal migrants from which of the following countries?
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Pakistan
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The CAA 2019 grants citizenship to illegal migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan.
According to the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, which religious minorities are eligible for citizenship?
Hindus
Sikhs
Muslims
Christians
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The CAA 2019 grants citizenship to Hindus, Sikhs, Christians, Buddhists, Jains, and Parsis who have migrated from the specified countries. Muslims are not included.
The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 applies to those who entered India on or before:
(a) 31st December 2014
(b) 31st December 2015
(c) 31st December 2016
(d) 31st December 2017
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The CAA 2019 applies to those who entered India on or before 31st December 2014.
Which of the following is a feature of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019?
(a) It makes changes to the provisions related to the termination of citizenship.
(b) It introduces a new method of acquiring citizenship.
(c) It relaxes the eligibility criteria for citizenship by naturalization for certain categories of migrants.
(d) It grants dual citizenship to all Persons of Indian Origin.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The CAA 2019 primarily relaxes the eligibility criteria for citizenship by naturalization for specific categories of migrants.
The National Register of Citizens (NRC) is:
(a) A register containing the names of all Indian citizens.
(b) A register containing the names of all residents of India.
(c) A register containing the names of all Persons of Indian Origin.
(d) A register maintained by the Ministry of External Affairs.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The NRC is an official record of those deemed legal citizens of India.
The process of updating the National Register of Citizens (NRC) was recently carried out in:
(a) All states of India
(b) All Union Territories of India
(c) The state of Assam
(d) All the northeastern states of India
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The process of updating the NRC was most recently carried out in the state of Assam.
Which of the following documents is NOT usually accepted as proof of citizenship for the NRC?
(a) Birth certificate
(b) Aadhaar card
(c) Voter ID card
(d) Bank statement
Answer: (d)
Explanation: While birth certificates, voter IDs, and Aadhaar cards can be used in the citizenship verification process, bank statements are typically not accepted as primary proof of citizenship.
The concept of domicile is related to:
(a) The place of birth of a person.
(b) The place where a person resides temporarily.
(c) The place where a person has a permanent home and intends to remain.
(d) The place where a person carries on his/her business or profession.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Domicile refers to the place where a person has their permanent home and intends to reside indefinitely. It is a legal concept distinct from temporary residence.
In India, there is:
(a) Single citizenship and single domicile
(b) Single citizenship and dual domicile
(c) Dual citizenship and single domicile
(d) Dual citizenship and dual domicile
Answer: (a)
Explanation: India follows the principle of single citizenship. Also, an individual can only have one domicile.
Which of the following statements is correct?
(a) A person can have dual citizenship in India under certain circumstances.
(b) A person can have multiple domiciles in India.
(c) A citizen of India can also be a citizen of another country.
(d) A citizen of India cannot be a citizen of another country.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The principle of single citizenship is strictly followed in India.
Which of the following authorities is empowered to determine matters of citizenship?
(a) The President of India
(b) The Parliament of India
(c) The Supreme Court of India
(d) The Election Commission of India
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The Parliament of India is empowered to make laws and determine matters of citizenship, as per Article 11 of the Constitution.
A person born outside India on or after December 3, 2004, shall be a citizen of India by descent, if:
(a) Either of his/her parents was a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth.
(b) Both of his/her parents were citizens of India at the time of his/her birth.
(c) Either of his/her parents was a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth and his/her birth is registered at an Indian consulate within one year of the date of birth.
(d) His/her father was a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Citizenship Act, 1955, was amended to include this provision, making the rules stricter for those born after December 3, 2004.
For the purpose of citizenship, an ‘illegal migrant’ is a foreigner who has entered India:
(a) With a valid passport and visa.
(b) With a valid passport but without a visa.
(c) Without a valid passport or with forged documents.
(d) For the purpose of tourism.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: An ‘illegal migrant’ is clearly defined as someone who enters India without valid travel documents or with forged documents.
Which of the following is NOT a ground for disqualification for citizenship by naturalization?
(a) That the applicant is not of good character.
(b) That the applicant has been sentenced to imprisonment for a term of two years or more in India.
(c) That the applicant has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of another country.
(d) That the applicant is a refugee.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Being a refugee, in itself, is not a disqualification for applying for citizenship by naturalization, though the application may be subject to additional scrutiny and may not be automatically granted. The other options are valid disqualifications.
The oath of allegiance for acquiring Indian citizenship is administered by:
(a) The President of India
(b) The Prime Minister of India
(c) The Ministry of Home Affairs
(d) The Supreme Court of India
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Ministry of Home Affairs is the authority that administers the oath of allegiance.
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the deprivation of citizenship?
(a) It can be done in all cases where a person has acquired citizenship by registration or naturalization.
(b) It can be done even if the citizen acquired citizenship by birth.
(c) It can be done only in cases of fraud, disloyalty, or unlawful trading with the enemy during wartime.
(d) It is a voluntary process initiated by the citizen.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Deprivation of citizenship is a punitive measure and is restricted to specific grounds like fraud, disloyalty, and trading with the enemy during wartime. It cannot be applied to citizens by birth.
A person registered as an OCI is NOT eligible to:
(a) Apply for Indian citizenship.
(b) Purchase property in India.
(c) Hold a government job.
(d) Travel to India without a visa.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: OCI cardholders are not eligible to hold government jobs.
Which of the following is a correct statement regarding the rights of citizens and aliens in India?
(a) Both citizens and aliens enjoy all fundamental rights.
(b) Citizens enjoy all fundamental rights, but aliens do not.
(c) Citizens enjoy certain fundamental rights that are not available to aliens.
(d) Aliens enjoy more rights than citizens in certain matters.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Certain fundamental rights, such as the right to equality of opportunity in matters of public employment (Article 16) and the right to vote, are exclusively available to Indian citizens.
Which of the following rights is available only to Indian citizens and not to aliens?
(a) Right to equality before the law (Article 14)
(b) Right to protection of life and personal liberty (Article 21)
(c) Right to freedom of speech and expression (Article 19)
(d) Right to freedom of religion (Article 25)
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Right to freedom of speech and expression under Article 19 is specifically guaranteed only to citizens of India.
The concept of ‘enemy alien’ refers to:
(a) A citizen of a country that has hostile relations with India.
(b) A citizen of a country that is at war with India.
(c) A person who has illegally entered India.
(d) A person who is involved in anti-national activities in India.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: An enemy alien is a citizen of a country that is at war with India.
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the rights of enemy aliens in India?
(a) They enjoy all fundamental rights.
(b) They do not enjoy any fundamental rights.
(c) They have limited fundamental rights and do not have protection against arrest and detention under Article 22.
(d) They have the same rights as Indian citizens, but with certain restrictions.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Enemy aliens have very limited rights and do not have the same protection against arrest and detention as regular citizens or even friendly aliens.
The term ‘Person of Indian Origin’ (PIO) refers to:
(a) A person who is currently a citizen of India.
(b) A person who has ever held an Indian passport.
(c) A person whose any of his/her ancestors was an Indian citizen.
(d) A person who is eligible to become an Indian citizen.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: A PIO is someone whose ancestors were Indian citizens, but who currently holds the citizenship of another country.
Which of the following is NOT a criterion for determining a person as a Person of Indian Origin (PIO)?
(a) Having ever held an Indian passport.
(b) Being a spouse of an Indian citizen.
(c) Having a parent or grandparent who was born in India.
(d) Currently residing in India.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Currently residing in India does not determine PIO status. A PIO is typically a citizen of another country.
Which document/scheme was introduced to facilitate travel and stay in India for Persons of Indian Origin?
(a) Aadhaar card
(b) PIO card
(c) OCI card
(d) PAN card
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The PIO card scheme was introduced to ease travel and stay for those of Indian origin.
The PIO card scheme has now been merged with:
(a) The Aadhaar card scheme
(b) The OCI card scheme
(c) The NRI scheme
(d) The National Register of Citizens
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The PIO card scheme has been merged with the OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card scheme.
Which of the following is a distinction between a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) and a Person of Indian Origin (PIO)?
(a) An NRI is an Indian citizen; a PIO is not.
(b) A PIO is an Indian citizen; an NRI is not.
(c) Both are Indian citizens living abroad.
(d) Both are foreign citizens of Indian descent.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: An NRI is an Indian citizen who resides abroad, while a PIO is a foreign citizen with Indian ancestry.
A Non-Resident Indian (NRI) is:
(a) An Indian citizen residing abroad.
(b) A foreign citizen of Indian origin.
(c) A person who has renounced Indian citizenship.
(d) A person who has been deprived of Indian citizenship.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: An NRI is an Indian citizen who resides abroad for employment, business, or other reasons.
Which of the following rights is available to an NRI?
(a) Right to vote in Indian elections
(b) Right to hold a government job in India
(c) Right to acquire agricultural land in India
(d) Right to acquire property in India
Answer: (d)
Explanation: NRIs have the right to acquire property in India, though there may be certain restrictions on agricultural land.
The concept of ‘illegal migrant’ in the context of citizenship laws in India primarily refers to:
(a) Indian citizens residing abroad without proper documentation.
(b) Foreigners who enter India with valid travel documents but overstay their visa.
(c) Foreigners who enter India without valid travel documents.
(d) Foreigners who are refugees seeking asylum in India.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: An illegal migrant is a foreigner who enters India without valid travel documents or with forged documents.
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the citizenship of children born to foreign diplomats in India?
(a) They are automatically considered Indian citizens.
(b) They acquire Indian citizenship if at least one parent is an Indian citizen.
(c) They are not considered Indian citizens.
(d) Their citizenship is determined by the President of India.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Children of foreign diplomats are generally not considered Indian citizens by birth, aligning with principles of diplomatic immunity and international law.
The concept of ‘stateless person’ refers to:
(a) A person who has dual citizenship.
(b) A person who has renounced his/her Indian citizenship.
(c) A person who is not considered a national by any state under its own law.
(d) A person who is living as a refugee in a foreign country.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: A stateless person is an individual who lacks a recognized nationality and is not considered a citizen by any country.
Which authority has the power to grant citizenship by naturalization?
(a) The President of India
(b) The Parliament of India
(c) The Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
(d) The Supreme Court of India
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Ministry of Home Affairs is the primary authority involved in granting citizenship by naturalization.
A person applying for citizenship by naturalization must:
(a) Have been born in India.
(b) Be of Indian origin.
(c) Be ordinarily resident in India for twelve years.
(d) Have served in the Indian armed forces.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: One of the key requirements for naturalization is that the applicant must have been ordinarily resident in India for twelve years.
The Constitution of India guarantees the right to equality before the law to:
(a) Only Indian citizens
(b) Both Indian citizens and foreigners
(c) Only persons of Indian origin
(d) Only persons with an OCI card
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Article 14, which ensures equality before the law, applies to all persons within the territory of India, including both citizens and foreigners.
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the application of fundamental rights to foreigners in India?
(a) All fundamental rights are available to foreigners in India.
(b) No fundamental rights are available to foreigners in India.
(c) Some fundamental rights are available to foreigners, and some are not.
(d) Foreigners have more fundamental rights than Indian citizens.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: While some fundamental rights, like Article 14 and Article 21, are available to both citizens and foreigners, others, like Article 16 and Article 19, are exclusively available to Indian citizens.
Which of the following rights is NOT available to an illegal migrant in India?
(a) Right to life
(b) Right to personal liberty
(c) Right to equality
Explanation: An illegal migrant does not have the right to vote. The other rights are generally applicable to all persons, including illegal migrants, though their enforcement may be subject to certain restrictions.
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the citizenship status of a child born in India to foreign parents who are not diplomats?
(a) The child is automatically an Indian citizen by birth.
(b) The child is not an Indian citizen by birth.
(c) The child can acquire Indian citizenship by registration upon reaching the age of 18.
(d) The child’s citizenship is determined by the parents’ nationality.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: As per the Citizenship Act, 1955, a person born in India on or after 26 January 1950, but before 1 July 1987, is an Indian citizen by birth, irrespective of their parents’ nationality.
The principle of ‘jus soli’ refers to acquiring citizenship based on:
(a) Descent from Indian parents.
(b) Birth within the territory of a country.
(c) Marriage to a citizen of a country.
(d) Naturalization after residing in a country for a specified period.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: ‘Jus soli’ is a Latin term that translates to “right of the soil” and means citizenship is determined by the place of birth.
The principle of ‘jus sanguinis’ refers to acquiring citizenship based on:
(a) Birth within the territory of a country.
(b) Descent from parents who are citizens of the country.
(c) Marriage to a citizen of the country.
(d) Naturalization after residing in a country for a specified period.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: ‘Jus sanguinis’ is a Latin term that translates to “right of blood” and means citizenship is determined by the nationality of one’s parents.
Indian citizenship laws primarily follow the principle of:
(a) Jus soli
(b) Jus sanguinis
(c) A combination of jus soli and jus sanguinis
(d) Neither jus soli nor jus sanguinis
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Indian citizenship laws follow a mix of both principles. While birth in India can sometimes confer citizenship (jus soli), descent from Indian parents (jus sanguinis) is also a significant factor.
Which of the following amendments to the Citizenship Act, 1955, significantly altered the rules regarding citizenship by birth?
(a) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 1986
(b) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 1992
(c) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003
(d) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019
Answer: (a)
Explanation: The 1986 amendment made significant changes to the rules of acquiring citizenship by birth, adding conditions about the citizenship of parents.
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the citizenship of a person who has renounced Indian citizenship?
(a) His/her minor children automatically lose their Indian citizenship.
(b) His/her minor children retain their Indian citizenship.
(c) His/her minor children can choose to retain or renounce their Indian citizenship.
(d) His/her minor children’s citizenship is determined by the President of India.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: As per the Citizenship Act, 1955, when a person renounces Indian citizenship, the minor children of that person also lose their Indian citizenship.
Which of the following is NOT a consequence of losing Indian citizenship?
(a) Loss of the right to vote.
(b) Loss of the right to contest elections.
(c) Loss of the right to hold public office.
(d) Loss of the right to own property in India.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: While loss of citizenship results in the loss of political rights (voting, contesting elections, holding office), it does not automatically lead to the loss of the right to own property in India, although there may be certain restrictions.
The concept of ‘reciprocity’ in citizenship matters refers to:
(a) Granting citizenship to persons from countries that grant similar rights to Indians.
(b) Depriving citizenship of persons who have committed crimes in another country.
(c) Treating citizens of another country equally with Indian citizens.
(d) Automatically granting citizenship to the spouses of Indian citizens.
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Reciprocity means that a country may grant citizenship or certain rights to individuals from another country if that country provides similar benefits to its own citizens.
Which of the following authorities is responsible for registering the birth of a child born to Indian citizens outside India?
(a) The Ministry of External Affairs
(b) The Ministry of Home Affairs
(c) The Indian embassy or consulate in the country of birth
(d) The local municipal authority in India
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The registration of such births typically takes place at the Indian embassy or consulate in the country where the child is born.
Which of the following is a correct statement regarding the process of granting citizenship to refugees in India?
(a) India has a specific law for granting citizenship to refugees.
(b) India is a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention.
(c) India does not have a specific law for granting citizenship to refugees, and their status is often determined on a case-by-case basis.
(d) Refugees are automatically granted Indian citizenship upon entering the country.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: India does not have a specific, comprehensive law for refugees. While it provides shelter to many, their citizenship status is often handled on a case-by-case basis. India is also not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention.
Consider the following statements:
1. Article 5 of the Indian Constitution deals with citizenship by descent.
2. Article 11 empowers the Parliament to regulate the right of citizenship by law.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Article 5 deals with citizenship at the commencement of the Constitution. Article 11 empowers the Parliament to make laws related to citizenship.
Which of the following is NOT a method of acquiring Indian citizenship?
(a) By birth
(b) By adoption
(c) By registration
(d) By naturalization
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Adoption is not a recognized method of acquiring Indian citizenship under the Citizenship Act, 1955.
A person born outside India on or after 26th January 1950, but before 10th December 1992, is a citizen of India by descent if:
(a) His/her mother was a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth
(b) His/her father was a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth
(c) Either of his/her parents was a citizen of India at the time of his/her birth.
(d) He/she registers as a citizen within one year of attaining majority
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Prior to the 1992 amendment, citizenship by descent for those born outside India during this period was granted if their father was an Indian citizen.
Which of the following statements is correct regarding the deprivation of citizenship?
(a) It is a voluntary process initiated by the individual
(b) It can be done in all cases of acquired citizenship
(c) It can be done even if the citizenship was acquired by birth.
(d) It is a compulsory termination of citizenship by the government under specified circumstances
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Deprivation is the term used when the government forcibly takes away one’s citizenship under certain conditions.
Which of the following authorities is empowered to grant Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI)?
(a) The President of India
(b) The Parliament of India
(c) The Ministry of External Affairs
(d) The Ministry of Home Affairs
Answer: (d)
Explanation: The Ministry of Home Affairs is primarily responsible for granting OCI status.
Which of the following statements is correct regarding dual citizenship in India?
(a) It is explicitly permitted under the Indian Constitution
(b) It is permitted under certain circumstances as provided for in the Citizenship Act, 1955.
(c) It is not permitted under the Indian Constitution
(d) It is permitted only for specific categories like Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs).
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Article 9 of the Constitution prohibits holding Indian and a foreign citizenship simultaneously.
Consider the following statements regarding citizenship by registration:
1. A person of Indian origin who is ordinarily resident in India for seven years before applying can acquire citizenship by registration.
2. A person who is married to an Indian citizen and is ordinarily resident in India for five years before applying can acquire citizenship by registration.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: (a)
Explanation: While the general requirement is seven years for a person of Indian origin, the residency requirement is also seven years for a person married to an Indian citizen, before applying for registration.
The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 grants citizenship to certain illegal migrants from which of the following countries?
1. Afghanistan
2. Myanmar
3. Pakistan
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The CAA, 2019 grants citizenship to specific illegal migrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Which article of the Indian Constitution ensures the continuance of the rights of citizenship to every person who is or is deemed to be a citizen of India?
(a) Article 8
(b) Article 9
(c) Article 10
(d) Article 11
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Article 10 deals with the continuance of citizenship rights.
Which of the following is NOT a ground for deprivation of citizenship by the Government of India?
(a) If the citizenship was obtained by fraud
(b) If the citizen has shown disloyalty to the Constitution of India
(c) If the citizen has been ordinarily resident out of India for a continuous period of seven years
(d) If the citizen has voted in a foreign election.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Voting in a foreign election does not automatically lead to deprivation of citizenship.
Which of the following is NOT a disqualification for acquisition of citizenship by naturalization?
(a) If the applicant is not of good character
(b) If the applicant has been sentenced to imprisonment for a term of two years or more
(c) If the applicant has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of any other country
(d) If the applicant is a student from a foreign country.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Being a student is not a disqualification for naturalization.
The provision for Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) was introduced by which of the following Acts?
(a) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 1992
(b) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003
(c) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2015
(d) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The OCI concept was introduced in 2003.
Which of the following rights is NOT available to an OCI cardholder?
(a) Right to acquire properties in India
(b) Right to vote in elections
(c) Multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India
(d) Parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in economic, financial, and educational fields
Answer: (b)
Explanation: OCI cardholders do not have the right to vote.
A person is eligible for citizenship by registration if he/she:
1. Is a person of Indian origin who is ordinarily resident in India for seven years before applying for registration.
2. Is a person who is married to a citizen of India and is ordinarily resident in India for seven years before applying for registration.
3. Is a minor child of persons who are citizens of India.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: All the given conditions are valid for registration.
Which of the following principles does Indian citizenship law primarily follow?
(a) Jus soli
(b) Jus sanguinis
(c) A combination of jus soli and jus sanguinis
(d) Neither jus soli nor jus sanguinis
Answer: (c)
Explanation: India’s citizenship law combines both.
A person is considered an illegal migrant if he/she:
(a) Is a foreign national visiting India on a tourist visa
(b) Is a foreign national who entered India without valid travel documents
(c) Is an Indian citizen residing abroad
(d) Is a foreign national married to an Indian citizen
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Entering without valid documents makes one an illegal migrant.
Which of the following amendments to the Citizenship Act, 1955, significantly altered the rules regarding citizenship by descent?
(a) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 1986
(b) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 1992
(c) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2003
(d) The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The 1992 amendment allowed either parent’s citizenship to be considered for citizenship by descent.
The concept of domicile in citizenship law refers to:
(a) The country of one’s birth
(b) The country where one currently resides
(c) The country where one has a permanent home and intends to reside permanently
(d) The country where one holds citizenship
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Domicile is a person’s true, fixed home.
Which article of the Indian Constitution deals with the rights of citizenship of certain persons who have migrated to India from Pakistan?
(a) Article 5
(b) Article 6
(c) Article 7
(d) Article 8
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Article 6 deals with those who migrated from Pakistan.
Which of the following is NOT a criterion for acquiring citizenship by naturalization?
(a) That the applicant is of good character
(b) That the applicant has adequate knowledge of an Indian language
(c) That the applicant has resided in India for 12 years
(d) That the applicant has served in the Indian Armed Forces.
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Serving in the Indian Armed forces is not a criterion for acquiring citizenship by naturalization.
Which authority is empowered to determine matters relating to citizenship in India?
(a) The President of India
(b) The Supreme Court of India
(c) The Parliament of India
(d) The Election Commission of India
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Parliament has the power to legislate on citizenship.
Which of the following is a feature of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019?
(a) It makes it easier for all illegal migrants to get Indian citizenship
(b) It grants citizenship based on religion
(c) It provides for dual citizenship for people of Indian origin
(d) It simplifies the process for all foreigners to obtain citizenship.
Answer: (b)
Explanation: The act grants citizenship based on religion for specific categories.
The term ‘Overseas Citizen of India’ (OCI) refers to:
(a) An Indian citizen living abroad
(b) A foreign national of Indian origin
(c) A stateless person of Indian origin
(d) A foreign diplomat of Indian origin
Answer: (b)
Explanation: OCI refers to people of Indian origin who are citizens of another country.
Which of the following is NOT a way in which Indian citizenship can be lost?
(a) By renunciation
(b) By termination
(c) By deprivation
(d) By emigration
Answer: (d)
Explanation: Emigration, by itself, doesn’t lead to automatic loss of citizenship.
Which article of the Constitution says that no person shall be a citizen of India if they have voluntarily acquired citizenship of a foreign state?
(a) Article 7
(b) Article 8
(c) Article 9
(d) Article 10
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Article 9 prohibits dual citizenship.
Under which circumstances can the Indian government deprive a person of his/her citizenship?
1. If the citizenship was obtained by fraud.
2. If the person has shown disloyalty to the Constitution of India.
3. If the person has been ordinarily resident out of India for a continuous period of seven years.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation: All the listed conditions are grounds for deprivation.
The Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, amended which of the following acts?
(a) The Passport Act, 1967
(b) The Foreigners Act, 1946
(c) The Citizenship Act, 1955
(d) The Registration of Foreigners Act, 1939
Answer: (c)
Explanation: The 2019 act amended the Citizenship Act, 1955.
Which of the following rights is available to both citizens and aliens in India?
(a) Right to equality of opportunity in matters of public employment (Article 16)
(b) Right to freedom of speech and expression (Article 19)
(c) Right to protection of life and personal liberty (Article 21)
(d) Right to vote in elections
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Article 21 is available to both citizens and aliens.
Consider the following about acquiring Indian citizenship:
1. Citizenship by birth.
2. Citizenship by descent.
3. Citizenship by naturalization.
4. Citizenship by marriage.
Which of the above are valid ways of acquiring Indian citizenship?
(a) 1, 2, and 3 only
(b) 2, 3, and 4 only
(c) 1, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Explanation: While marriage can be a factor for *registration*, it is not a direct way of acquiring citizenship, Birth, descent, and naturalization are direct methods.
Which of the following statements is true regarding a person registered as an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)?
(a) He/she has the right to vote in Indian elections.
(b) He/she can hold a constitutional office in India.
(c) He/she is entitled to a multiple-entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa to visit India.
(d) He/she is entitled to acquire agricultural land in India.
Answer: (c)
Explanation: OCI holders get lifelong visas, but not the other rights mentioned.