Home minister approves task force on citizenship applications

Home Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the setting up of a task force to monitor and expedite processing of citizenship and long term visa (LTV) applications, according to a government statement issued Friday.

The task force will start functioning in two weeks.

"The grant of citizenship causes difficulties to applicants, especially to minorities from neighbouring countries who are often of poor economic standing. In this regard, (Home Minister) Rajnath Singh has approved the task force which will be headed by Joint Secretary (Foreigners)," the statement said.

The task force would expedite the processing of the cases with complete documents so that citizenship is granted within two months.

The task force would also keep track of the initial applications, which are filed online.

"Home ministry officials may also be sent to coordinate with state governments considering the specific pending cases," the statement said.