Swamy’s concerns stem from records of a UK-based company, Backops Limited, where Rahul Gandhi was listed as a Director. The petition highlights that in the company’s filings between 2005 and 2009, Gandhi’s nationality was reportedly mentioned as British. Swamy contends that this disclosure contravenes Article 9 of the Indian Constitution and the Citizenship Act of 1955, which prohibits Indian citizens from voluntarily acquiring the citizenship of another country.
The matter was initially brought to the MHA’s attention in April 2019, when the ministry issued a notice to Gandhi, requesting him to clarify his citizenship status within two weeks. However, Swamy claims that the MHA has yet to resolve the issue, prompting his current plea to the court.
The Delhi High Court is expected to hear the petition in the coming days, with Swamy urging the judiciary to instruct the MHA to act on his representation. This legal move could further intensify the ongoing political debate surrounding Gandhi's eligibility to hold public office in India, adding another layer to the longstanding controversy.
Swamy, a former Union Minister and known for his outspoken criticism of Gandhi, has been persistent in his efforts to question the Congress leader’s legal standing. The outcome of this petition could have significant implications for Gandhi’s political future and the broader discourse on citizenship laws in India.
The case is anticipated to attract considerable attention, given its potential impact on a prominent political figure and the legal precedents it may set regarding citizenship and public office eligibility.