Vijai Sardesai, president of the Goa Forward Party, has called for dual citizenship for Goans who have Portuguese ties, citing India’s strengthening partnership with Europe.
Sardesai said the demand gains relevance in the context of Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledging the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) status of António Costa. He argued that a similar approach could be considered for Goans with historical Portuguese connections.
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According to Sardesai, granting dual citizenship would recognise Goa’s unique colonial history while allowing Goans to contribute economically and culturally to both India and Europe.
He further stated that the move would require amendments to the Citizenship Act, 1955 to permit Indo-Portuguese dual nationality for eligible Goans.
The proposal has once again brought the issue of dual citizenship for Goans into the spotlight, with proponents arguing it could strengthen cultural ties and economic engagement between India and Europe.
