US wants but Reluctant to Condemn India over its Persistent Anti-Minority Violence

 

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The State Department in United State published an “Annual Report” on religious freedom. It discussed about the status of minorities several countries. The report mentioned attacks on religious minorities in India including Muslim and Christian who are part of the second most populous country in the world after People’s Republic of China.

A senior official in the United disclosed on the condition of anonymity that India, a country having a vast potential, saddened US by persistent violence.

The official said that we want to condemn persistent violence by Indian Government towards minorities living in the country. 

The official further added that due to these concerns the government in United States continuously encouraging Indian government to take action against the violence and hold the anti-minority culprits accountable.

The official also pledged to directly discuss the matter with his counterparts in India about the matter and will ensure close collaboration with Indian media and its civil society.

According to the report released, which is based on research, as well as analysis of Indian media and information taken from advocacy groups, raised concerns over demolition of Muslim’s homes by the government and flogging of public by the Police upon the accusation of injuring Hindus in Gujrat.

United States Commission on International Religious Freedom had continuously criticized India for its religious and human rights violations. It also suggested to put India on blacklist over its violent and anti-minorities conduct.

United States reluctance to take a hard stance against India:

The current report was presented by Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, but he did not mentioned India when he slammed China, Iran, Nicaragua and Burma on account of religious and human rights violations.

Blinken is also assigned to mention “Countries of particular concern” for religious intolerance by the end of this year. But it is expected in many spheres that the name of India will not be included because of its longstanding partnership with US to act as bulwark against China.

Blinken concluded the presentation by saying:

 “We defend the right to believe — or to not believe — not only because it’s the right thing to do, but also because of the extraordinary good that people of faith can do in our societies and around the world.”

(Courtesy: Dawn)