Jaishankar Lauds CAA, Hints At Providing Multiple-Entry Visa In Meeting With Afghan Sikh Refugees

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that Afghan Sikh refugees could be granted multiple-entry visa for easier travel to and from India as their situation is "unique".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday met with Afghan Sikh refugees in West Delhi as part of the BJP's outreach campaign on the ninth anniversary of the Modi government. During the meeting at Guru Arjun Dev Gurdwara in West Delhi's Mahavir Nagar, Jaishankar addressed the concerns of the refugees and discussed potential solutions.

Accompanied by Delhi BJP leaders, including state president Virendra Sachdeva, Jaishankar expressed his willingness to understand the issues faced by the Sikh refugees. Many of them expressed their desire to return to Afghanistan to attend to their properties and gurdwaras. Recognizing the merit of their request, the minister suggested the provision of multiple-entry visas to facilitate their travel between India and Afghanistan.

Apart from addressing travel concerns, Jaishankar promised to address the refugees' worries regarding their citizenship status, passports, and schooling for their children. He emphasized the importance of supporting the refugees rather than burdening them, citing instances where individuals who acquired Indian citizenship faced unexpected difficulties.

When asked about opposition to the Citizenship Amendment Act, Jaishankar responded that the law provided protection and opportunities for those affected. He emphasized that the issue was one of humanity and not politics, stating that the Afghan Sikh refugees could not be abandoned to fend for themselves in Afghanistan. The minister assured the refugees that their demands and concerns would be earnestly considered and addressed.

Furthermore, Jaishankar acknowledged that not all refugees sought Indian passports. Some wished to retain their previous passports, while others had applied for citizenship in different countries.

As part of the BJP's month-long campaign to showcase the achievements of the Narendra Modi government over the past nine years, Jaishankar, alongside former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, has been tasked with overseeing activities across the seven Lok Sabha constituencies in Delhi.