In anticipation of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming state visit to Washington, several US rights groups are finalizing preparations for holding protests against what they perceive as a deteriorating human rights situation in India.
According to foreign media, the Indian American Muslim Council, Peace Action, Veterans for Peace, and Bethesda African Cemetery Coalition intended to gather near the White House on June 22, coinciding with Modi’s scheduled meeting with US President Joe Biden.
While Washington seeks closer ties with India as a counterweight to China, human rights advocates express concerns that geopolitical considerations may overshadow human rights issues.
Flyers with messages such as “Modi Not Welcome” and “Save India from Hindu Supremacy” have been prepared by the protesting groups.
Additionally, an event titled “Howdy Democracy” is planned in New York, referencing the 2019 “Howdy Modi!” rally in Texas, which featured Prime Minister Modi and then-US President Donald Trump.
Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have invited policymakers, journalists, and analysts to a screening in Washington of a BBC documentary that questions Modi’s leadership during the deadly 2002 Gujarat riots.
However, analysts believe that these protests and events are unlikely to significantly impact the discussions between Biden and Modi.
Donald Camp, a former State Department official and member of the Washington think tank Centre for Strategic and International Studies, suggested that human rights issues may not be a central focus of the conversation.
To ensure the visit is seen as successful by both sides, there may be a reluctance from Washington to raise human rights concerns.
Critics highlight that India has seen a decline in press freedom, ranking 161st out of 180 countries in this year’s World Press Freedom Index. India has also experienced the highest number of internet shutdowns globally for five consecutive years. The Indian government dismisses such criticism, asserting that its policies aim to benefit all communities and that it upholds the law impartially.
Modi remains highly popular in India and is expected to remain in office following next year’s elections.
