Armed with the figures, the ministry has now sent the proposal to concerned departments for an opinion.

NEW DELHI: The BJP-led NDA government is considering a proposal from the Jewish community demanding grant of minority status. An assessment submitted as part of the Jewish representation puts the numbers of Jews at just about 5,000 in the country. Ministry of minority affairs has sent this proposal to concerned departments and agencies for an opinion. The final call for grant of minority status lies with the Union Cabinet.

The development gains significance in the backdrop of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assertion last month at the world Sufi meet that India can accommodate minorities, including "micro minorities" like Parsis, and has the space for "believers and non-believers".

Union minister for minority affairs Najma Heptulla on Tuesday said that the proposal for minority status for Jews is under consideration. It is learnt that the proposal was received by the ministry from Jewish community representatives in October last year. A scrutiny of the demand led to a need for assessment of their population in India.

Armed with the figures, the ministry has now sent the proposal to concerned departments for an opinion.

If all aspects are found to be in line with the law a formal proposal will be made which may then be put up for consideration of the Union Cabinet.

