Assam: It’s only a draft, not final NRC: Rajnath

30 July 2018:

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has said the complete draft of National Register of Citizens (NRC) published on Monday was “only a draft, and not final”. His reaction came after the complete NRC draft was published without including names of about 40 lakh residents of Assam.

Addressing the media in New Delhi, Singh said those whose names have not been included should not panic as they would get opportunity to prove their citizenship.

“I want to clarify that even after the final NRC is published, every person will get an opportunity to approach the Foreigners’ Tribunals,” he added.

“Some people are unnecessarily trying to create an atmosphere of fear. I want to assure all that there is no need for any apprehension or fear. Some misinformation is also being spread. NRC process has been done impartially. Some people may not have been able to submit necessary documents. They will get full opportunity through claims and objections process,” he explained.

This means that even those whose names do not figure in the final NRC will get an opportunity to approach the tribunals.

The Home Minister said the NRC updating process is being carried out with complete fairness and transparency and has been monitored by the Supreme Court.