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Voting right a source of joy for the NRIs

This had been a major demand from the NRIs living in the Gulf region for a long time. Khaleej Times has highlighted the issue several times.

However, the decision evoked mixed response from the Indian community in the UAE.

Commenting on the move, Yusuf Ali MA, prominent NRI businessman in Dubai, said: "I see this as a long-cherished dream come true for all NRIs based in the Gulf region. They have been fighting for this cause for more than three decades now. This is a major milestone and it recognises the efforts of NRIs, who have immensely contributed to India's economic and social development."

He added that this could help the NRIs to make their voice heard more effectively in the power corridors of India.

"NRIs were treated before as 'milch cows'. But with this decision the government is giving them back some thing," he pointed out.

M.C.A. Nasser, a media professional, said: "Even though I welcome the move, I don't think it will make a big difference. The government is giving us voting rights only if we are in India during elections. That means most of us will not be able to cast our votes while we are outside the country."

The government should allow the NRIs to cast their vote in the diplomatic missions in different countries, he suggested.

Talking over telephone from Delhi, Vayalar Ravi, Minister for NRI Affairs, said, "A decision was taken to amend the Representation of the People Act 1950 to amplify the definition of 'ordinarily resident' to include non-resident Indians, who are away from India on employment, for education or for any other reason."

He added that following the cabinet's nod, NRIs can enrol themselves in the electoral rolls and vote during parliamentary and assembly elections. The amendment will be brought through a bill — the Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, 2006 — to be introduced in the current session of Parliament, he disclosed.

"The amendment bill will entitle eligible citizens of India to cast their votes in parliamentary and assembly elections when they are in their constituency and thus fully participate in the democratic process of nation building. This will add to the NRIs' sense of belonging," he said.

The enrolment of NRIs in the voting list will commence once the amendment is passed in parliament, he assured.

• UAE