HATE is Rising in India Says US | Targeting India before Russia Visit

Growing Concerns: Hate Speech and Anti-Conversion Laws in India

Introduction

Today we will discuss a significant topic that has garnered international attention recently.

The United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, made a substantial statement expressing concern over the rising instances of hate speech and religious discrimination in India. Blinken highlighted that hate speech is continually increasing in India and also raised concerns about the anti-conversion laws in the country. This marks a significant moment as it underscores growing international scrutiny on India's internal issues.

                                     

Understanding Anti-Conversion Laws

Firstly, it’s essential to clarify what anti-conversion laws entail. The presence of these laws does not mean that an individual cannot change their religion. Currently, there is no national law in India that outrightly prohibits religious conversion. However, various states have enacted individual laws that require a person who wishes to convert to inform the government about their reasons for conversion.

The primary purpose of these laws is to ensure that conversions are not conducted through coercion, threats, or inducements. According to these laws, an individual must approach the government, typically a District Magistrate, and provide a valid reason for their desire to convert. The authorities then observe the situation to ensure the conversion is genuinely voluntary and not influenced by external pressures. Only after receiving the government’s approval can a person proceed with changing their religion.

                                       

The U.S. Perspective: Why the Concern?

You might wonder why the United States is concerned about these laws, especially since they do not exist at a national level but only in about 8-10 states. The United States has been publishing reports through the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), which criticize several countries, including India, for issues related to religious freedom. Although India has not been officially listed as a "country of particular concern," the USCIRF reports frequently highlight incidents where missionaries have been arrested under these laws. 

For example, in 2017, three Christian missionaries were arrested in Madhya Pradesh under anti-conversion laws, and a similar case emerged in Karnataka in October 2022. The U.S. argues that if someone wants to convert their religion, they should have the freedom to do so without governmental interference. This stance is grounded in the belief that religious freedom is a fundamental human right that should be protected and respected universally.

                                     

India's Response to International Scrutiny

India, on the other hand, has consistently dismissed these reports, stating that the USCIRF is a biased entity with a political agenda. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has openly criticized these reports and the statements based on them, arguing that they do not accurately reflect the situation on the ground. According to the Indian government, these reports are based on selective data and do not consider the country's efforts to promote communal harmony and protect the rights of all citizens.

Moreover, the Indian government emphasizes that anti-conversion laws are necessary to prevent forced or fraudulent conversions, which can lead to social unrest and undermine the country’s secular fabric. The authorities maintain that these laws are in place to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and ensure that conversions occur in a transparent and voluntary manner.

                                

Broader Geopolitical Context

Beyond the issue of religious freedom, the United States has other concerns regarding India's growing engagement with Russia. Significant geopolitical developments have occurred recently, such as Russia sending coal to India via Iran’s Bandar Abbas port for the first time, utilizing the North-South Transport Corridor. This development enhances Iran’s strategic importance and strengthens the energy trade between India and Russia, which does not sit well with the U.S.

The United States is also concerned about potential military cooperation between India and Russia. There is a possibility that India and Russia may sign a logistics pact this year, which could have significant geopolitical implications worldwide. This pact may trigger reactions not just from the U.S. and Europe but also from Ukraine. Such cooperation between India and Russia is perceived as a challenge to the strategic interests of the United States and its allies, particularly in the context of ongoing global tensions.

                                             

India's Strategic Balancing Act

India finds itself in a delicate position, balancing its strategic relationships with major global powers. On one hand, India values its growing partnership with the United States, which is crucial for its economic growth, technological advancement, and regional security. On the other hand, India has longstanding ties with Russia, particularly in the defense sector, and relies on Russian military equipment and technology.

India’s engagement with Russia is not limited to defense but extends to energy, technology, and infrastructure projects. The North-South Transport Corridor, which aims to facilitate trade between India, Russia, and Iran, is one such initiative that underscores India’s strategic interests in maintaining a robust relationship with Russia.

The Path Ahead

                                             

As India and Russia continue to deepen their cooperation in various fields, including nuclear energy, the United States’ scrutiny and critical statements are likely to increase. The evolving dynamics of these international relationships will undoubtedly be closely watched. It will be interesting to see whether Prime Minister Modi visits Russia soon, as anticipated by some geopolitical analysts. Such a visit would signify India's commitment to its strategic partnership with Russia, despite growing international pressure.

In the coming months, it will be crucial to monitor how India navigates its complex foreign policy landscape. The country’s ability to maintain a balanced approach between its relationships with the United States and Russia will have significant implications for regional and global stability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the recent statements by the U.S. Secretary of State highlight the growing international concern over issues related to hate speech and religious freedom in India. While India dismisses these concerns as biased, the broader geopolitical context suggests that such criticisms are part of a larger strategic maneuvering. As India continues to strengthen its ties with Russia, it faces increased scrutiny from the United States. The coming months will be crucial in determining how India balances its international relationships and addresses these critical issues on the global stage.