Washington: The Indian diaspora plays a central role in strengthening India’s global standing, but issues such as dual citizenship and voting rights require careful handling given India’s unique geopolitical and constitutional challenges, senior BJP leader Ram Madhav said.

Addressing an Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) interaction, Madhav acknowledged the emotional and political bond overseas Indians share with their homeland. “Your brains work here, but your heart is in Bharat,” he told the audience.

Complex Citizenship

Responding to questions on dual citizenship and voting rights for NRIs, Madhav said the issue was far more complex than it appeared, referring to territorial disputes, geopolitical complications and regional security concerns.

“When you extend citizenship, whether you extend it to them also or not, so many other complications are involved,” he said.

OCI As Alternative

Madhav said India has expanded benefits under the Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) framework. “That gives a lot of benefits already, short of voting,” he said, while adding that further facilities could be considered.

“More can be extended as you demand. You want anything more, that also can be considered,” he said, describing the government as “very, very friendly to NRIs.”

Quiet Governance

Responding to questions on illegal immigration, Madhav said the government was acting quietly but firmly. “We are doing more and propagating less,” he said, declining to give figures.

“Certain things have to be done correctly. Be assured that the concern that you have, ten times more concern is there in the people who are in the government,” he added.

Responsible Assertiveness

Madhav cautioned against aggressive postures in foreign affairs, saying India’s credibility rests on restraint. “Assertiveness has to be responsible. It cannot be aggressive,” he said.

He said India’s independent foreign policy had earned global respect. “You’ll be surprised to know 40 countries followed us,” he said, referring to neutral stances on global conflicts.

Madhav underlined the Indian diaspora as a key pillar of India–US relations, noting the community now numbers over four million.