The Indian Government has imposed restrictions on Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) from practising journalism or research and engaging in Tabligh or missionary activities.
OCI card holders are now required to have to take prior permission from the “competent authority” or Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) “to undertake research; to undertake any Missionary or Tabligh or Mountaineering or Journalistic activities; to undertake internship in any foreign Diplomatic Missions or foreign Government organisations in India or to take up employment in any foreign Diplomatic Missions in India; to visit any place which falls within the Protected or Restricted or prohibited areas as notified by the Central Government or competent authority”.
According to the latest rights notified will include grant of multiple entry lifelong visa to visit for any purpose; exemption from registration with FRRO for any length of stay; and parity with nationals in domestic air fares and entry fees to monuments and public places.
It has also said that OCI card holders will enjoy parity with Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) in adoption, appearance in competitive exams, purchase or sale of immovable property barring agricultural and farm houses, and pursuing professions like medicine, law, architecture and chartered accountancy. Apart from restrictions on journalism, research and missionary work, the new notification provides for exemption from registration with the FRRO if cardholders intimate the office by email if there is a change in permanent residential address or occupation.
