Tracing the Evolution of Citizenship

Tracing the Evolution of Citizenship
Ismail Shaik

This paper explores into the evolving concept of citizenship throughout history, highlighting its inherent exclusivity and reliance on defining an "other." It critically examines the controversial Citizenship Amendment Act of 2019, positing it as a politically motivated strategy by the majoritarian party. Comparative analyses of citizenship laws in other countries shed light on varying degrees of leniency. Additionally, the economic aspect of migration is explored, showcasing the rise in remittances from migrants across nine nations. Ultimately, the paper challenges the meaningfulness of the notion of 'citizen' amidst contemporary humanitarian concerns and advocates for embracing a 'cosmopolitan' framework. Through these discussions, the paper engages with pivotal debates surrounding citizenship, politics, and global migration dynamics.

Citizenship, Citizenship Amendment Act, Majoritarianism, Exclusion, Comparative Analysis, Migration, Remittances, Cosmopolitanism