The Indian government has vehemently rejected the US State Department’s report on International Religious Freedom for 2023, labeling it “deeply biased” and “driven by vote bank considerations.” The report, according to India, lacks understanding of the country’s social fabric and selectively presents facts to advance a preconceived narrative.
India takes issue with the report’s depiction of its Constitutional provisions and laws, questioning the validity of legislation and challenging legal judgments. The report also targets regulations monitoring financial flows into India, suggesting that compliance burdens are unreasonable. India points out that the US has even more stringent laws and regulations, highlighting hypocrisy.
While acknowledging human rights and diversity as legitimate discussion topics, India asserts that dialogue should not become a license for foreign interference.
India has raised cases of hate crimes, racial attacks, and vandalism of places of worship in the US, emphasizing sovereignty and rejecting external interference. The Indian government has sought the attention of US authorities to address these pressing concerns, which include:
India categorically rejects the US report, slamming its bias, selective representation, and interference in internal affairs. India reaffirms its commitment to human rights and diversity, while asserting its sovereignty and rejecting external influence.