S. Africa: Gupta family renounces Indian citizenship

By Hassan Isilow

JOHANNESBURG (AA) - Members of the powerful Indian Gupta family have renounced their Indian citizenship, a South African government minister has said.

The Guptas, who enjoy a close relationship with President Jacob Zuma, sparked controversy last month when their application for naturalization, which had been reportedly denied, was approved under controversial circumstances.

According to local media, new Home Affairs Minister Hlengiwe Mkhize told parliament Thursday that some of the members of the Gupta family had submitted proof showing they had renounced their Indian citizenship.

The Indian government does not allow its citizens to hold dual citizenship.

The Gupta family has been under the spotlight in South Africa for some time, on allegations that it has influenced President Zuma to fire ministers who do not support their business interests.

Zuma has strongly denied these claims.

The multibillion dollar Gupta business is run by three brothers, all in their 40s.

Some of their business interests include mining, media and computers among many others.

Ajay, Atul and Rajesh Gupta have strongly denied allegations of influence peddling and corruption.

Three years ago, the brothers were also accused of unofficially landing a commercial plane at a military airforce base in the capital Pretoria.