Increased Violence and Discrimination
In June 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a third term in office, highlighted by an election campaign that stoked discrimination and violence against Muslims and other minorities. A new report from Human Rights Watch emphasizes this concerning trend amid a backdrop of stifled dissent and brutal repression.
Human Rights Violations on the Rise
The Human Rights Watch 2025 World Report assesses human rights practices in over 100 countries, revealing a disturbing global pattern. Executive Director Tirana Hassan notes rampant arrests of political dissenters and violence against civilians by armed groups and government forces, with authoritarian regimes gaining traction through targeted discriminatory language and policies.
Crippling the Rule of Law
“Prime Minister Modi likes to boast of India’s democratic traditions, but it’s become increasingly hard for him to hide his government’s deepening crackdown on minorities and critics,” states Meenakshi Ganguly of Human Rights Watch. A decade of oppressive policies has eroded the rule of law and severely impacted the rights of marginalized communities in India.
Ethnic Conflict in Manipur
A surge of ethnic violence has erupted in the northeastern state of Manipur, resulting in over 250 deaths and displacing 60,000 residents since May 2023. In September, clashes between the Christian Kuki-Zo and Hindu Meitei communities tragically claimed at least 11 lives, highlighting the urgent need for security measures.
Government Suppression of Civil Society
Indian authorities are reportedly using stringent laws to silence civil society groups and activists. These tactics include the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Civil society faces undue harassment, restricting their ability to operate effectively.
Accountability for Violence Against Women
The shocking rape and murder of a doctor in Kolkata triggered protests, revealing the pervasive violence against women in India, especially in workplaces. This incident exposes the severe barriers women face in seeking justice for such crimes.
International Allegations Against Indian Intelligence
Canada and the U.S. have accused Indian intelligence agencies of targeting separatist leaders and terrorism suspects for assassination abroad. Additionally, Canada’s police reported criminal activities conducted by Indian agents on its soil, escalating concerns over India’s actions on international turf.
Call for Reforms
Human Rights Watch urges Indian authorities to cease discriminatory practices against religious minorities and enhance justice for affected groups. To restore peace, it recommends addressing violence in Manipur and engaging with community leaders for effective solutions.
– Modi’s BJP induced discrimination during 2024 elections. – Human Rights Watch report highlights global human rights abuses. – Ethnic violence in Manipur: 250 dead, 60,000 displaced. – Women face violence; protests follow a doctor’s murder. – International concerns over targeted assassinations by Indian agencies.
The report from Human Rights Watch underscores a troubling pattern of rising violence and repression in India, particularly against minorities. Instances of ethnic conflict, attacks on civil society, and discrimination highlight an urgent need for reform and accountability within the government. The international community has raised alarms over these practices, which pose significant challenges to India’s democratic ideals.
Original Source: www.hrw.org
