Question

What is meant by citizenship?

Hint:

A concise way to define citizenship is: "The status of being a member of a particular country, which confers a set of rights and responsibilities." This covers both aspects of the relationship between the individual and the state.

Answer 1

Step 1: Key Concept:
Citizenship is the legal status that establishes the relationship between an individual and a particular state. It signifies that the individual is a full and responsible member of that state, which in turn entails specific rights, duties, and privileges.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Citizenship implies the following:
1. Legal Status: It is a formal recognition by a country that a person is its member. This status is typically acquired by birth (jus soli or jus sanguinis), descent, registration, or naturalization.
2. Entitlement to Rights: A citizen is entitled to all civil and political rights guaranteed by the state. These often include the right to vote, the right to hold public office, and fundamental rights protected by the Constitution. Aliens (non-citizens) may not enjoy all these rights.
3. Obligation of Duties: Citizenship also carries certain duties and responsibilities towards the state. These include obeying the country's laws, paying taxes, and defending the nation if required.
In the Indian context, the provisions related to citizenship are contained in Part II (Articles 5 to 11) of the Constitution and the Citizenship Act, 1955.