- Minority Attacks Sharply Increase
- Conversion Laws Spark Concern
- International Scrutiny Intensifies
Article Today, New Delhi:
India’s record on religious freedom has come under renewed international scrutiny following the latest annual report of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom. The commission categorised India as a country of particular concern, citing patterns of discrimination and violence against religious minorities. The report has triggered discussion across diplomatic and human rights circles worldwide.
Findings of the US panel
The commission noted that policies and public discourse over the past decade have contributed to an environment of religious intolerance. It referred to the impact of citizenship related legislation and alleged selective enforcement of laws. However, the Government of India rejected the findings, calling them biased and lacking factual basis. Despite the denial, the report has remained a focal point in global debates.
Violence Against Muslims
Meanwhile, concerns over violence against Muslims have been echoed by several rights groups. According to Human Rights Watch, incidents of mob violence linked to cow protection campaigns have increased significantly since 2014. Many of the reported cases involved Muslim victims. In addition, the issue has been raised at international forums, including discussions linked to the United Nations human rights mechanisms in Geneva.
Rising Attacks on Christians
Christian groups have also reported a sharp rise in targeted incidents. Data released by the United Christian Forum showed that attacks on Christians rose to seven hundred and twenty cases in 2023, compared to five hundred and ninety nine in the previous year. Several incidents were reported from Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh, involving disruptions of prayer meetings and alleged harassment over conversion accusations.
Restrictions Through Funding Laws
In addition, the report pointed to the use of foreign funding regulations to curb the functioning of minority organisations. It stated that more than twenty thousand non governmental organisations lost their licences under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act in the past five years. A significant number of these organisations were linked to Christian and Muslim communities. Observers argue that these measures have affected welfare and educational activities.
Anti Conversion Legislation
The report also highlighted the enforcement of anti conversion laws in twelve States. Over the past year, around five thousand cases were registered under these laws, often based on complaints without supporting evidence. Legal experts have raised concerns that such enforcement may conflict with Article Twenty Five of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of religion.
Diplomatic and Economic Implications
Therefore, analysts warn that continued concerns over religious freedom could affect India’s global standing. Discussions on minority rights have also surfaced in forums linked to the European Union, including debates on violence in Manipur. While Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sought to project India as a global leader, experts note that internal social stability remains crucial for sustaining diplomatic influence and economic growth.
