US Commission Highlights Religious Abuses in India

In October, 2024, the US Commission for International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) flagged growing concerns over religious freedom violations in India, calling for the country to be labeled a "Country of Particular Concern."

Key Points

Allegations of Misinformation and Violence: The report cites the use of misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech—allegedly including that by government officials—leading to violent attacks against religious minorities and their places of worship.
Designation as a 'Country of Particular Concern': The USCIRF’s annual report recommends that the US Department of State designate India as a "Country of Particular Concern" for systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom.
Documented Abuses in 2024: The report highlights incidents in 2024 where individuals were killed, beaten, or lynched by vigilante groups, religious leaders were arbitrarily arrested, and places of worship were demolished. The USCIRF claims these events amount to severe violations of religious freedom.
Historical Visa Denials: India has consistently denied visas to USCIRF members, starting from the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, accusing the commission of interference in internal affairs.
Criticism of India's Legal Framework: The USCIRF criticized India's legal framework, citing laws such as the Citizenship Amendment Act, uniform civil code, and anti-conversion and cow slaughter laws, which it claims are used to disenfranchise religious minorities.