“From Stranger to Citizen: Brenden Crasto’s Journey to Indian Citizenship”
In a poignant ceremony at the Secretariat in Porvorim, Goa Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant handed over an Indian Citizenship certificate to Mr. Brenden Valentine Crasto, a Pakistani national who has called Goa home for decades. This moment marked the culmination of Crasto’s long-standing quest for belonging, as he became the third Pakistani national in Goa to receive Indian citizenship under the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) of 2019
With tears of joy in his eyes, Crasto expressed his gratitude to the CAA, the Goa government, and the central government for granting him citizenship. “I waited a long time. We came back to Goa in 1981, and after 44 years, I have got my citizenship. I am very grateful to all,” Crasto said, his voice trembling with emotion.
Crasto’s journey to citizenship is a testament to the power of hope and perseverance. Having married an Indian citizen, Merilyn Fernandes, in 2014, Crasto’s desire for citizenship was not just a personal aspiration but also a dream for his family. The CAA has brought new hope to many individuals like Crasto, who have been living in India for years without citizenship [3].
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant highlighted the significance of this moment, stating that Crasto’s citizenship is a matter of pride. “This is the third citizenship granted in Goa under CAA. After years of struggle, Brenden has finally got his citizenship. His wife and children are happy today, and so are we,” Sawant said, emphasizing the importance of the CAA in fostering a sense of belonging among persecuted minorities [3].
As Crasto embarks on this new chapter in his life, his story serves as a beacon of hope for others seeking citizenship under the CAA. With his Indian citizenship certificate in hand, Crasto can now look forward to a brighter future, free from the uncertainties of his past [2].
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