The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has reportedly commenced an inquiry into Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s citizenship status, following allegations of his purported British nationality. This development was disclosed to the Delhi High Court during a hearing on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy, who seeks the revocation of Gandhi’s Indian citizenship.

Legal proceedings in Delhi High Court

On November 6, 2024, the Delhi High Court was apprised of the ongoing CBI investigation into Gandhi’s citizenship. The court was informed that a similar PIL is pending before the Allahabad High Court, filed by Karnataka BJP worker S. Vignesh Shishir, which also calls for a CBI probe into Gandhi’s alleged British citizenship. The Delhi High Court emphasized the necessity of avoiding parallel proceedings on identical issues in different courts.

Allegations of British citizenship

The controversy centers on claims that Rahul Gandhi declared himself a British citizen in documents related to a company registered in the United Kingdom. Subramanian Swamy has presented these documents as evidence, asserting that Gandhi’s alleged British citizenship contravenes Indian laws, which prohibit dual citizenship. Swamy contends that such a status renders Gandhi ineligible to hold public office in India.

Government’s response and court’s directive

The Union Home Ministry has acknowledged receiving representations concerning Gandhi’s citizenship status. The Delhi High Court has directed the ministry to provide a status report on the actions taken regarding these representations. Additionally, the court has instructed the ministry to obtain a copy of the petition pending before the Allahabad High Court to assess the overlap between the two cases.

Political repercussions and public discourse

The initiation of a CBI investigation into a prominent political figure’s citizenship has sparked significant public interest and debate. Supporters of the investigation argue that it is essential to uphold the integrity of public office, while critics view it as a politically motivated move aimed at discrediting a key opposition leader. The outcome of this inquiry could have substantial implications for Rahul Gandhi’s political career and the broader political landscape in India.

Expert opinions on the citizenship controversy

Legal experts have weighed in on the complexities of the case. The Indian Constitution does not permit dual citizenship, and any evidence suggesting that a public official holds citizenship of another country warrants thorough investigation. However, such inquiries must be conducted impartially, without political bias, to maintain public trust in the legal system.

Next steps in the legal process

The Delhi High Court has scheduled the next hearing for December 15, 2024, by which time the Union Home Ministry is expected to submit its status report. Concurrently, the Allahabad High Court is set to continue its proceedings on the related PIL. The CBI’s findings will play a crucial role in determining the course of action in both courts.

The allegations concerning Rahul Gandhi’s citizenship status have introduced a contentious issue into India’s political discourse. As the CBI conducts its investigation and the courts deliberate on the matter, the nation awaits clarity on the implications for Gandhi’s eligibility to hold public office and the potential impact on the political dynamics ahead of the upcoming general elections.

  Allahabad High Court, British Citizenship, Central Bureau of Investigation, Congress Party, Delhi High Court, Indian Citizenship, Rahul Gandhi, Subramanian Swamy, Union Home Ministry