Foreign citizens of Indian origin cry foul after India tweaks rules on their status in the country

The changes have caused disquiet among Overseas Citizenship of India cardholders, particularly those who have returned to carve out a new life. - AFP

NEW DELHI (The Straits Times/ANN): India has tweaked the rules for those holding Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards - an immigration status for foreign citizens of Indian origin - causing much disquiet, particularly among those living and working in the country.

A type of permanent residency for Indian-origin, foreign nationals, OCI, which was introduced in 2005, allowed for visa-free travel and holders enjoyed the same rights as an Indian national except on owning agricultural land, voting and getting a government job.