Adnan Sami applies again for Indian citizenship

The 43-year-old singer, whose first request was rejected two years back, sends application to India’s home ministry

NEW DEHLI:

Unfazed by his first unsuccessful attempt, renowned Pakistani singer Adnan Sami has applied for Indian citizenship for a second time.

The 43-year-old singer - whose first request was rejected some two years back - has sent his application to the foreigners’ division of India’s home ministry. “His application is under consideration,” said officials.

Last month, the home ministry had asked the law ministry as to whether Sami can be granted Indian citizenship. The law ministry refused to entertain the request, saying that the power of granting Indian citizenship lies with the home ministry under the Citizenship Act, but offered to help the home ministry with interpreting any provision of the law to enable it to decide Sami’s case.

Under the Indian Citizenship Act, a foreigner is entitled to receive citizenship provided he or she has rendered distinguished service to the cause of science, philosophy, art, literature, world peace or human progress.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 2^nd, 2015.