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The escalating tension between India and the US over religious freedom has reached a new peak with India's forceful rejection of the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) report. In a statement issued on Thursday, India's Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal labeled the USCIRF a "biased organization with a political agenda" and accused it of "misrepresenting facts and peddling a motivated narrative about India." This strong condemnation highlights the deep mistrust and discord that have been simmering between the two nations regarding the USCIRF's role and assessments of India's religious freedom situation.
The USCIRF report, released earlier this year, raised serious concerns about the alleged deterioration of religious freedom in India. The report cited instances of violence against religious minorities, arbitrary arrests of religious leaders, and the demolition of homes and places of worship. It went on to recommend that India be designated as a "Country of Particular Concern" (CPC), a designation reserved for nations with egregious violations of religious freedom. India has consistently refuted these claims, arguing that the USCIRF report is based on inaccurate information and politically motivated.
This latest clash marks a continuation of a long-standing disagreement between India and the USCIRF. India has repeatedly denied visas to USCIRF members seeking to visit the country, citing their interference in India's internal affairs. The Indian government has also accused the USCIRF of engaging in biased and agenda-driven reporting aimed at tarnishing India's reputation. The USCIRF, however, maintains its independence and insists that its reports are based on thorough research and credible evidence.
The implications of this ongoing dispute are significant. It has the potential to strain relations between India and the US, two nations that share important strategic and economic ties. It also raises broader questions about the role of international organizations in monitoring human rights and promoting religious freedom. While the USCIRF claims to be an independent body, its actions have been seen by some as an extension of US foreign policy. This perception, if left unaddressed, could further undermine the USCIRF's credibility and legitimacy.
Source: 'Biased organisation with political agenda': India rejects US religious freedom report