National Register of Citizens in Assam: Home Minister Rajnath Singh says no need to panic

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured that there is no need for people to panic with regard to the publication of NRC in Assam, saying all bonafide Indians will be given adequate opportunities to prove their citizenship.

The NRC to be published on July 30 is only a draft and adequate opportunity for claims and objections will be available, he clarified. The home minister in a series of tweets, said the National Register of Citizens (NRC), a list of Assam's citizens, is being updated in accordance with the 'Assam Accord', signed on August 15, 1985, and is being carried out as per the directions of the Supreme Court, which is constantly monitoring the process.

"There is no reason for panic or fear. No person will be allowed to be harassed. We will ensure that every individual gets justice and is treated in a humane manner," he said.

"All claims and objections will be duly examined. Adequate opportunity of being heard will be given before disposal of claims and objections. Only thereafter, final NRC will be published," he said.

There is no question of anyone being put in a detention centre after the publication of NRC, he said.

Singh said the Assam government has been asked to ensure that law and order is maintained and no one is allowed to take law into their hands, and all possible arrangements are made to ensure safety and security for all.

The first draft of the NRC, a list of the state's citizens, was published on the intervening night of December 31 and January 1 last where names of 1.9 crore people out of the 3.29 crore applicants were incorporated.