The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), in its latest annual report, has recommended imposing sanctions on certain organizations and institutions in India, citing concerning conditions regarding religious freedom. The commission specifically called for action against the Hindu nationalist group Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and India’s external intelligence agency, RAW. The report also suggested that India be included once again in the list of countries of particular concern due to the worsening situation for religious minorities.
According to the report, religious minorities in various regions of India are facing increasing pressure, and some state governments have tightened laws related to religious conversion, increasing penalties for violations. The commission highlighted incidents of mass arrests and deportations of citizens and religious refugees, as well as mob attacks against minority communities. Communal riots in states including Maharashtra, Odisha, and Uttar Pradesh were also cited as examples.
The commission urged the US government to condition arms sales and trade relations with India on the state of religious freedom and to consider imposing sanctions under relevant laws if necessary. The report also noted that some recent legislation could negatively affect minority institutions and religious organizations.
Meanwhile, the Indian government has historically rejected such allegations. While no immediate official response has been issued regarding the new report, last year the Indian Ministry of External Affairs described USCIRF reports as biased and politically motivated. India has maintained that certain incidents are exaggerated and emphasized that the country has a strong tradition of religious diversity and harmony. The government also stated that attempts to tarnish India’s reputation in this manner will not succeed.
