Minneapolis Review

WASHINGTON– Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) introduced a resolution today to condemn human rights violations and violations of international religious freedom in India, including those targeting Muslims, Christians, Jews, Sikhs, Dalits, Adivasis, and other religious and cultural minorities. The resolution coincides with her briefing yesterday with journalism advocates, religious freedom activists, and human rights groups on the situation in India. 

The resolution calls on the Secretary of State to designate India as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act, which was recommended by the independent, bipartisan U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom for the past four years.

The introduction comes after continued violence and threats made against religious minorities, . There have been numerous reports of national and state governments condoning harassment and acts of violence made against religious minorities.

“As Prime Minister Modi visits the United States, we should be using the opportunity to discuss the democratic backsliding and severe human rights abuses committed under his leadership," said Rep. Omar. "In recent years, the Indian government has been escalating repressive policies against Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits and others—with internet blackouts, suppression of speech, unlawful detention of journalists, and mob violence. The United States should stand for religious freedom in India and the fair treatment of all religious minorities. It is time for the State Department to acknowledge the reality of the situation in India and formally designate India as a Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act."

You can read the full resolution here.

Original co-sponsors of H.Res 542 include Reps. Trone, Pressley, Tlaib, and Jacobs.

Original source can be found here.