In the
latest development concerning the impact of the Ministry of External Affairs’
recent circular, a concerned group representing affected individuals met with
Goa’s Chief Minister and NRI Commissioner Narendra Sawaikar on Monday, urgently
seeking redressal for those facing revoked passport status and their subsequent
inability to apply for Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status.
Commissioner
Sawaikar, addressing the issue, affirmed that the NRI commission has actively
initiated efforts to resolve this pressing matter. “Several affected
individuals from Goa approached me regarding the revocation of their passports,
emphasizing the necessity to bring this matter before the relevant authorities
for a quick resolution,” he remarked.
Assuring
the affected parties, Sawaikar highlighted the parliamentary intervention by MP
Sadanand Shet Tanavade, who has already raised this critical issue in the Rajya
Sabha. “This matter has been presented before the authorities and I have
personally pledged, on behalf of the NRI commission, to vigorously pursue a
solution. I hold a firm belief that relief will be forthcoming for those
affected,” Sawaikar reassured.
However,
Sawaikar acknowledged the legal complexities involved, stating, “This
issue revolves around a legal framework due to a judgment impacting the
issuance of revocation certificates by the passport office to persons who
registered their births in Portugal.” He emphasized that resolution
requires intervention from the concerned authority, particularly the Home
Ministry. “We are maintaining constant communication with the Home
Ministry to facilitate the necessary interventions,” Sawaikar added,
expressing confidence in the ongoing dialogue to bring about a resolution.
