USCIRF Condemns Violence in India’s Capital City
The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) expresses grave concern over the ongoing violence taking place in Delhi, India’s capital city. As President Donald Trump’s inaugural visit to India winds down, northeastern Delhi has been rocked by deadly rioting, with reports of violence and mobs specifically targeting Muslims.… According to reports, several mosques have also been set alight or vandalized.…
“The brutal and unchecked violence growing across Delhi cannot continue,” said USCIRF Commissioner Anurima Bhargava. “The Indian government must take swift action to ensure the safety of all of its citizens. Instead, reports are mounting that the Delhi police have not intervened in violent attacks against Muslims, and the government is failing in its duty to protect its citizens. These incidents are even more concerning in the context of efforts within India to target and potentially disenfranchise Muslims across the country, in clear violation of international human rights standards.”
USCIRF Chair Tony Perkins stated, “The ongoing violence we are witnessing in Delhi and the reported attacks against Muslims, their homes and shops, and their houses of worship are greatly disturbing. One of the essential duties of any responsible government is to provide protection and physical security for its citizens, regardless of faith. We urge the Indian government to take serious efforts to protect Muslims and others targeted by mob violence.”…
ALSO SEE
US House Foreign Affairs Committee: Deeply troubled by deaths from communal violence in India (Feb 26, 2020, Indian Express)
‘World is Watching’: US Lawmakers Slam Communal Unrest in Delhi (Feb 26, 2020, The Quint)
Violence Fuelled By Hate Speeches Needs Immediate Action By The Government (Feb 25, 2020, Amnesty)
India’s Ruling Party, Government Slammed Over Delhi Violence (Feb 26, 2020, Wall Street Journal)
