What is the citizenship amendment bill and why is it controversial

Explain the provisions and controversies of the Citizenship Amendment Bill, 2019 in India.
The Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB), now the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), is a piece of legislation passed in India in December 2019. Here are the provisions and controversies regarding the bill: 1. The bill grants citizenship to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi, and Christian immigrants from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, who arrived in India before December 31, 2014. 2. It provides a fast-tracked process for acquiring Indian citizenship by reducing the residence requirement from 11 to 5 years. 3. The bill excludes Muslim immigrants from the neighboring countries, leading to criticism of religious discrimination and violating the secular nature of India. 4. Opponents argue that the bill violates the principle of equality as enshrined in the Indian Constitution. 5. The bill has sparked protests and clashes in various parts of India, with critics expressing concerns over its potential to marginalize Muslims and undermine the principles of diversity and pluralism. Overall, the Citizenship Amendment Act has stirred controversy due to its differential treatment towards Muslims and the potential implications it may have on India's secular fabric.
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