“India engaging in ‘systematic violations of religious freedom’, says U.S. commission”
1. USCIRF’s Allegations Against India
The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) claims India is engaged in systematic violations of religious freedom.
They recommend designating India as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC).
Key concerns include hate speech by government officials and violent attacks on religious minorities.
2. Use of Misinformation and Disinformation
The report highlights the use of misinformation to provoke violence against minorities and their religious places.
Religious leaders have been arrested, and places of worship have been destroyed.
3. India’s Response and Visa Denial
India has denied visas to USCIRF members, citing interference in internal affairs.
The visa denial began during the Manmohan Singh administration and continues under the current government.
4. Legal Framework and Policies
The USCIRF report criticizes laws such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and state-level anti-conversion laws.
These laws are seen as targeting religious minorities.
5. Bias Allegations
Indian officials and some Indian-American groups accuse USCIRF of biased and unscientific reporting aimed at maligning India.
Funny Points and Facts:
Visa Denial: Apparently, USCIRF members might need better travel agents if they ever hope to visit India!
CPC Designation: Maybe USCIRF should try “Country of Particular Confusion” instead?
MCQs:
What did the USCIRF recommend for India in 2024?
a) Lifting all travel restrictions.
b) Recognizing India as a “Country of Peace”.
c) Designating India as a “Country of Particular Concern”.
d) Conducting joint religious freedom programs.
Answer
Answer: c) Designating India as a “Country of Particular Concern”. Explanation: USCIRF cited systematic violations of religious freedom and called for India to be recognized as a CPC.
What legal change was criticized by the USCIRF in its report on India?
a) Introduction of universal health care.
b) Implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA).
c) Abolition of cow slaughter laws.
d) Introduction of new tax reforms.
Answer
Answer: b) Implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). Explanation: The USCIRF report criticizes the CAA and state-level anti-conversion laws, claiming they target and disenfranchise religious minorities.
