ASSAM STATE JAMIAT ULEMA E HIND vs UNION OF INDIA

The Supreme Court interpreted Clause 3(3) of the Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issues of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003, clarifying that it provides a distinct and less stringent process for identifying 'originally inhabitants of the State of Assam' for inclusion in the National Register of Citizens (NRC). The Court held that this clause constitutes an exception to the general identification process outlined in Clause 3(2), emphasizing that the identification must ascertain citizenship beyond reasonable doubt. The judgment establishes the legal principle that the process for originally inhabitants is not as rigorous as for others, ensuring their claims are assessed appropriately.