India Rejects International Critique on Religious Freedom

The Indian government firmly rejects the authority of any foreign entity, including the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), to comment on matters of constitutionally protected rights within the nation. This was communicated in a written response in the Rajya Sabha by the Minister of State for External Affairs, Kirti Vardhan Singh.

Singh criticized the USCIRF for relying on 'questionable sources and selective narratives' over objective facts regarding religious freedoms in India. The Commission's recommendations to label India as a 'Country of Particular Concern' for the second year running have been dismissed by India, which perceives these critiques as part of a deliberate agenda, rather than genuine concern.

India, home to over 1.4 billion people of various religious backgrounds, is characterized as a vibrant democracy committed to pluralism. Singh emphasized that the Indian Constitution safeguards fundamental rights, overseen by a robust judicial system. The government remains committed to protecting the rights and freedoms of all its citizens while maintaining strong diplomatic relations.