Q1. Which of the following statements best distinguishes between citizenship by registration and naturalisation under the Citizenship Act, 1955?
- Registration is available only to persons of Indian origin; naturalisation is available to foreigners of any origin.
- Registration requires a longer period of residence than naturalisation.
- Naturalisation allows dual citizenship; registration does not.
- Registration is automatic; naturalisation requires Presidential approval.
Correct Option: 1. Registration is available only to persons of Indian origin; naturalisation is available to foreigners of any origin.
Explanation: Citizenship by registration is generally for persons of Indian origin, spouses of Indian citizens, etc., while naturalisation is open to any foreign national meeting specified conditions.
Q2. Which of the following disqualifies a person from acquiring Indian citizenship by descent after December 3, 2004?
- One parent is a citizen of India.
- Birth is not registered at the Indian consulate within one year.
- Both parents are Indian citizens but child holds foreign passport.
- Child is born in a SAARC country.
Correct Option: 2. Birth is not registered at the Indian consulate within one year.
Explanation: As per the amendment effective December 3, 2004, a person born outside India is not a citizen by descent unless:
*At least one parent is an Indian citizen at the time of birth, and
*The birth is registered at the Indian consulate within one year of birth (or with special permission later).
Q3. A foreigner who has rendered distinguished service in art or science may be granted Indian citizenship by naturalisation. In such cases, which of the following is true?
- All conditions under Section 6 must still be fulfilled.
- Citizenship can be granted only after 5 years of residence.
- The Central Government may waive some or all standard conditions.
- Citizenship must be approved by the Parliament.
Correct Option: 3. The Central Government may waive some or all standard conditions.
Explanation: The Citizenship Act allows the Central Government to waive the naturalisation requirements in case of distinguished service to humanity.
Q4. Under the Constitution of India, which of the following is empowered to regulate the acquisition and termination of Indian citizenship?
- Supreme Court
- President
- Prime Minister
- Parliament
Correct Option: 4. Parliament.
Explanation: Article 11 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to make laws governing acquisition and termination of citizenship.
Q5. Which of the following rights is not exclusively available to Indian citizens but is extended to both citizens and non-citizens?
- Right to vote
- Right to freedom of speech
- Right to equality before law
- Right against discrimination
Correct Option: 3. Right to equality before law.
Explanation: Article 14 guarantees equality before the law to all persons, not just citizens.