Global Concerns Mount Over Treatment of Minorities in India on World Day of Social Justice

New Delhi, On the World Day of Social Justice, international attention has been drawn to the treatment of minorities in India, sparking widespread concern over systemic oppression and discriminatory practices under the current government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the Muslim, Christian, Dalit, and Sikh communities in India are reportedly living in a state of heightened fear and insecurity due to policies and actions that have been described as marginalizing and oppressive. Human Rights Watch (HRW) has specifically highlighted the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC) as measures that contribute to a perceived erosion of equality and rights for Indian citizens.

Meenakshi Ganguly, the South Asia director at HRW, criticized the Indian government’s approach, arguing that such policies foster a divided society, undermining the foundational principle of equal rights for all citizens. This sentiment is echoed by other global human rights organizations:

• Amnesty International, in its 2023 Annual Report, emphasized the necessity for India to cease discriminatory policies and practices adversely affecting Muslims, Christians, Dalits, and other minority groups.

• Human Rights Watch, in its 2023 World Report, urged the Indian government to abolish laws and policies perceived as discriminatory, to end biased policing practices, and to ensure accountability for human rights abuses.

• The United Nations Human Rights Council, through Resolution 49/17 in 2022, highlighted its concerns about India’s alleged discriminatory laws and policies, as well as the hate crimes and violence targeting religious minorities, Dalits, Adivasis, and other vulnerable groups.

The discourse surrounding the plight of minorities in India is complex, involving historical contexts, societal dynamics, and varying interpretations of current events and policies. Reports of Hindutva leaders inciting violence against minority communities, particularly Muslims, have intensified fears and contributed to a climate of insecurity.

The increase in attacks and discriminatory actions against Muslims, Dalits, Sikhs, and Christians raises serious questions about India’s adherence to its democratic and secular principles. This situation has prompted calls for international intervention to address and rectify the systematic violations of human rights in the country.

The ongoing struggle for social justice and equality among India’s minority communities stands as a significant challenge to the international community’s commitment to upholding human rights and ensuring justice for all individuals, regardless of their religious or social background.

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