Saralnama
Two sisters living in Kerala since 2008 remain stateless after failing to obtain renunciation certificates from the Pakistan High Commission, which is required to prove they have renounced Pakistani citizenship. They surrendered their Pakistani passports in 2017 but were minors then, and Pakistan’s rules prevent renunciation under age 21 unless included in a parent's application. After turning 21, the High Commission refused to issue the certificates without explanation. Their mother and brother have Indian citizenship, but the sisters cannot apply for Indian passports or prove citizenship, impacting their daily lives and travel. The Kerala High Court initially ordered the Indian government to grant them citizenship, but this was overturned on appeal, citing the need for formal renunciation to ensure legal clarity. The sisters may appeal to a higher court. The family’s complex history involves migration during the India-Pakistan partition and subsequent citizenship challenges amid tense bilateral relations. The Pakistani High Commission has not responded to requests for comment. (Updated 2 Sep 2025, 08:08 IST; source: link)