The US State Department in its annual human rights assessment claimed that there were “significant abuses” in Manipur last year and “attacks” on minorities, journalists and dissenting voices in the rest of India.
What did US State Department report said about Manipur?
In its report, the State Department claimed that more than 60,000 people were displaced in northeastern state of Manipur between May and November last year.
It further said more than 200 people were killed in “fierce fighting” between tribal Kuki-Zo and majority Meitei populations after a court order suggested that Kuki’s minority privileges be extended to the Meitei.
‘Urge India to uphold human rights obligations, commitment’
Commenting after the release of the report, Robert S Gilchrist, senior official from the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour, told reporters that “India and the US regularly consult at the highest levels on democracy and human rights issues.”
“We strongly encourage, urge India to uphold its human rights obligations and commitments. We also regularly meet with civil society representatives both in the US and India to hear their perspectives, and those sorts of perspectives inform the human rights report, and we encourage the government of India to consult and meet regularly with civil society organisations representing a diversity of people,” Gilchrist further said.
“So, there are a number of steps. It remains a key component of our – not just our dialogue – but in terms of our engagement with India,” he added.
US claims of ‘attacks’ on minorities in India
The US State Department report further claimed in the rest of India, “numerous instances” were reported in which “the government and its allies allegedly pressured or harassed media outlets critical of the government.”
The US in its assessment further claimed that “religious minorities” in India reported discrimination including calls for violence and spread of misinformation.
The claims have, however, been shunned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government in India, which has been denying abuse of minorities and stating that the policies by the government aim to benefit all Indians.
According to a report by Reuters, political analysts say Washington has restrained in its public criticism of New Delhi because the US hopes India will act as a counterweight to an expansionist China.
With inputs from agencies
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