Class 11 Political Theory Chapter 6: Citizenship Notes
Citizenship defines the legal status, rights, and duties of individuals within a state. This chapter explores the meaning of citizenship, types of citizenship (birth, naturalization), and the difference between active and passive citizenship. It also discusses global citizenship, migration, and challenges like statelessness and refugee rights in the modern world.
Introduction: What is Citizenship?
- Citizenship is a legal status that grants an individual rights and responsibilities in a country.
- A citizen is a recognized member of a political community (state/nation) and enjoys protection under its laws.
- Example: Indian citizens have the right to vote, work, and live anywhere in India.
Why is Citizenship Important?
- Gives individuals identity and legal status.
- Ensures rights like voting, education, and work.
- Creates a sense of belonging and national loyalty.
- Brings responsibilities like paying taxes and obeying laws.
Who is a Citizen?
Citizen vs. Non-Citizen
| Aspect | Citizen | Non-Citizen (Foreigner) |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status | Recognized by the state. | No legal membership. |
| Rights | Full rights (e.g., voting, property). | Limited rights (e.g., work permit only). |
| Duties | Must obey laws, pay taxes. | Must follow visa and immigration rules. |
| Example | An Indian citizen can vote in elections. | A US tourist in India cannot vote. |
Types of Citizenship
Birth-Based Citizenship
- A person born in a country automatically becomes its citizen.
- Used in USA, Canada, and Brazil.
- India abolished Jus Soli in 1955 to prevent misuse.
Blood-Based Citizenship
- Citizenship is passed from parents to children, regardless of birthplace.
- Used in India, Germany, Japan, and China.
Naturalized Citizenship
- Granted to foreigners who fulfill legal conditions (residency, good conduct, etc.).
- Example: A person living in India for 12 years can apply for citizenship.
Citizenship by Registration
- Given to foreigners married to Indian citizens or those with Indian ancestry.
Citizenship by Investment (Economic Citizenship)
- Some countries grant citizenship in exchange for large investments.
- Example: Malta, Cyprus, and Caribbean nations offer citizenship in return for investments.
Citizenship in the Indian Constitution
Article 5-11: Who is an Indian Citizen?
| Article | Provision |
|---|---|
| Article 5 | Citizenship for people who lived in India before 26 Jan 1950. |
| Article 6 | Citizenship for people who migrated from Pakistan to India. |
| Article 7 | Citizenship for those who went to Pakistan but returned with a resettlement permit. |
| Article 8 | Citizenship for Indians living abroad. |
| Article 9 | Losing Indian citizenship if voluntarily acquiring another country’s citizenship. |
| Article 10 | Parliament can regulate citizenship. |
| Article 11 | Gives Parliament power to make laws on citizenship. |
Acquisition and Loss of Indian Citizenship
How Can One Become an Indian Citizen?
- By Birth – Born in India before 1 July 1987 or after 1 July 1987 with Indian parents.
- By Descent – Born outside India but parents are Indian citizens.
- By Registration – Foreigners married to Indians, PIOs (Persons of Indian Origin).
- By Naturalization – Lived in India for 12+ years, good character, knowledge of Indian language.
- By Incorporation – If a new territory joins India (e.g., Sikkim in 1975).
How Can One Lose Indian Citizenship?
| Method | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Renunciation | Voluntarily giving up Indian citizenship. |
| Termination | Automatic loss if acquiring another country’s citizenship. |
| Deprivation | Government cancels citizenship if obtained fraudulently. |
Single vs. Dual Citizenship
| Type | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Single Citizenship | Citizen of only one country. | India. |
| Dual Citizenship | Citizen of two countries at the same time. | USA, Canada, UK. |
Global Citizenship and Its Challenges
What is Global Citizenship?
- A belief that people should consider themselves as part of a global community, beyond national borders.
- Encourages cooperation on global issues like climate change and human rights.
Challenges to Global Citizenship
- Nationalism vs. Globalism – Some people prefer national identity over global identity.
- Economic Inequality – Rich countries dominate global decisions.
- Legal Barriers – Countries control immigration and restrict global movement.
Citizenship and Rights in India
Rights Available to Citizens Only
- Right to vote.
- Right to contest elections.
- Right to public employment.
Rights Available to All (Including Non-Citizens)
- Right to equality (Article 14).
- Right to freedom of religion (Article 25).
- Right to life and personal liberty (Article 21).
Responsibilities and Duties of Citizens
Responsibilities of a Good Citizen
- Obey laws and respect the Constitution.
- Pay taxes honestly.
- Protect public property and the environment.
- Promote harmony and national unity.
Fundamental Duties (Article 51A)
- Added by 42nd Amendment (1976).
- Includes respect for the national flag, scientific temper, and protection of cultural heritage.
Conclusion
- Citizenship is a legal identity that provides rights and duties.
- India follows Jus Sanguinis (blood-based) citizenship.
- Parliament regulates citizenship through laws like the Citizenship Act (1955).
- Citizens enjoy exclusive rights like voting and contesting elections.
- Responsibilities like obeying laws and paying taxes are part of good citizenship.
- In the modern world, debates on global citizenship continue.