Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray has raised sharp questions over a recent statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) that a passport is not a conclusive document of citizenship.
Taking to X, Thackeray questioned what authorities verify before issuing a passport if it is not treated as proof of citizenship. He also asked whether India issues passports to non-Indians and whether such remarks could create confusion internationally about the status of Indian passport holders.
“If the MEA believes a passport is not a document of citizenship, what do the police verify before granting a passport? Does our country give passports as travel documents to non-Indians as well? Wouldn’t this announcement create doubts in the minds of other countries about whether non-Indians get Indian passports as a travel document?” he wrote, further criticising what he termed as “confused messaging” from the government.
The controversy stems from a recent clarification by the MEA in which officials stated that a passport is primarily a travel document issued to facilitate international travel and should not be treated as conclusive proof of citizenship on its own. The ministry, however, emphasised that passports are issued only after detailed verification by multiple agencies, including police authorities, to establish eligibility and nationality before issuance.
According to the MEA’s clarification, while a passport is a key identity and travel document used internationally, citizenship determination involves a broader legal and administrative process under Indian law.
If the MEA believes Passport is not a document of citizenship:
1) What do the police verify before granting a passport?
2) Does our country give passports as travel documents to non Indians as well?
3) Wouldn’t this announcement create doubts in the minds of other countries,… pic.twitter.com/p3ebg90A3C
— Aaditya Thackeray (@AUThackeray) June 24, 2026
The remarks have triggered political reactions and public debate over the distinction between citizenship proof and travel documentation, with opposition leaders demanding clearer guidelines on the issue.
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