An Indian-born taxi driver, sentenced to 20 years in prison for kidnapping and sexually assaulting a woman at knifepoint in 2011, has had his citizenship revoked, announced the Justice Department on Monday, NY Post reported.
Federal Court Rulings Required for Citizenship Revocation
The process of revoking citizenship, also known as denaturalization, can only be initiated through a ruling by a federal court. This complex procedure is typically reserved for cases where an individual has obtained citizenship through deception or has participated in serious criminal activities. Such stringent measures underscore the legal framework governing citizenship status in the United States.
As stated in a victim impact statement presented by prosecutors during Singh’s sentencing, the woman awoke to discover the cab driver on top of her, brandishing a knife against her throat and questioning her desire to live. Singh menaced the victim, restrained her with bindings and a gag, covered her eyes with a blindfold, stripped her of her clothing, and sexually assaulted her. Following this, she escaped from his taxi on foot and sought assistance from a passerby.
Judge Orders Gurmeet Singh to Submit Citizenship Documents
Gurmeet Singh, who first entered the United States in February 1992 on a six-month temporary visa, has faced legal challenges regarding his immigration status. After residing in the country without legal authorization for several years, he was granted permanent residency in June 2000 due to a visa petition filed by his family.
Recently, Brooklyn federal judge Nicholas Garaufis issued a directive requiring Singh to submit his citizenship documents, including his naturalization certificate and U.S. passport, by September 16. This order marks a significant step in Singh’s ongoing legal situation regarding his citizenship status.
