US Raises Alarm Over Human Rights Issues in India, Opposes Religious Persecution

The United States will continue to raise concerns about human rights issues in India and opposes the persecution of religious groups in the country, according to US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller. Speaking at a press conference, Miller stated that the US regularly raises human rights concerns with countries it engages with, including India. This comes ahead of President Joe Biden's upcoming trip to India to attend the G-20 Summit. The issue of alleged Christian persecution in India has been a topic of discussion, with the Voice of the Martyrs Christian non-profit terming India as "hostile to Christians."

In response, Miller reiterated the US's opposition to the persecution of Christians and any religious group worldwide. The annual US report on human rights practices also highlighted significant human rights issues and abuses in India, including the targeting of religious minorities, dissidents, and journalists. Secretary of State Antony Blinken had previously expressed concern about the rise in human rights abuses in India by some government, police, and prison officials. However, criticism of India by the US is rare due to close economic ties and India's importance as a regional counterbalance to China. Advocacy groups have raised concerns about the deteriorating human rights situation in recent years, particularly under the Bharatiya Janata Party led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Critics argue that the government's policies have fostered religious polarization, targeting Muslims in particular. The US report also highlighted issues such as the 2019 citizenship law, which excluded Muslim migrants from neighboring countries, as well as anti-conversion legislation that challenged the constitutionally protected right to freedom of belief. Additionally, the revocation of Muslim-majority Kashmir's special status in 2019 was mentioned. With President Biden's upcoming trip to India, the topic of human rights and religious persecution is expected to be addressed. The United States remains firm in its stance against the persecution of Christians and religious groups worldwide, and will continue to raise human rights concerns with India and other nations it engages with.