As the European Union (EU) seeks to strengthen its partnership with India, human rights organisations are pressing for immediate action regarding the alarming decline of human rights in India. The past decade has seen the Indian government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), systematically erode independent institutions, stifle dissent, suppress press freedom, and target religious minorities. This has created a chilling environment where political opponents and civil society groups face increasing scrutiny and allegations of financial misconduct under federal laws.
The situation has worsened for human rights defenders (HRDs), journalists, activists, and academics, who are often prosecuted under harsh anti-terrorism laws. Hate speech and calls for violence against marginalised groups have proliferated, yet the government has failed to hold offenders accountable. Laws such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) are being misused to silence dissent, while humanitarian aid efforts are stifled under vague legal grounds.
Moreover, the National Human Rights Commission of India has consistently failed to address the growing human rights abuses, leading to the suspension of its accreditation. The Citizenship Amendment Act of 2019 has further entrenched discrimination, particularly against Muslims, raising fears of disenfranchisement amid proposed citizenship verification processes. Anti-conversion laws add another layer of vulnerability for religious minorities, while punitive measures against dissenters such as demolitions in BJP-governed states exacerbate prevailing tensions.
The situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains dire, with journalists frequently detained, while the ethnic violence in Manipur has led to numerous casualties and displacement, with government inaction adding to the crisis. Technology is being weaponised against rights, with widespread internet shutdowns employed to quell dissent. Furthermore, surveillance legislation raises serious privacy concerns, while allegations of extraterritorial violence against critics, especially in Canada, add to the international outcry.
Despite these pressing human rights violations, the EU’s response has been muted, with concerns reportedly raised in private dialogues rather than through public condemnation. As the EU leadership prepares for discussions with Indian officials, they are urged to promote human rights by demanding the immediate release of detained activists and reform of oppressive laws. Key recommendations include the repeal of laws that undermine civil liberties, investigating violence against minorities, and ensuring accountability for human rights abuses, all while linking the EU-India partnership to India’s human rights progress.
The call for change is clear: the EU must prioritise human rights in its negotiations with India, framing the Strategic EU-India Agenda with measurable outcomes in this vital area. This plea aims to foster a dialogue that champions accountability and protects the fundamental freedoms of all individuals within India’s borders.
Human rights in India are deteriorating under the BJP government, which has restricted dissent and targeted minorities. Activists face severe legal repercussions, with laws like the UAPA misapplied to silence opposition. The EU is urged to address these concerns publicly as it further engages with India, linking human rights compliance to bilateral relations. Key recommendations include releasing detained activists and reforming repressive legislation to uphold fundamental freedoms.
The situation of human rights in India demands urgent attention as violations increase under current government policies. The EU is urged to take a stand, linking bilateral relations to India’s adherence to human rights standards. Recommendations include dropping baseless charges against activists, reforming oppressive laws, and ensuring justice for minorities. Ensuring human rights are central to the EU-India partnership is not only ethical but necessary for a robust alliance.
Original Source: www.fidh.org
