Dear President von der Leyen,
Dear Commissioners,
Urgent Human Rights Concerns in India
As the College of Commissioners heads to India to strengthen EU-India relations, we feel it is essential to address serious human rights issues in the country.
India’s human rights situation has worsened over the past decade. The government led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has weakened independent institutions crucial for accountability. There has been an increase in attacks on peaceful protests, press freedom, and the rights of minorities. Authorities often use strict laws to target political opponents and civil society groups, frequently accusing them of financial misconduct.
Human rights defenders and journalists face serious risks. The government applies tough anti-terror laws to silence activists and critics, while hate speech from officials has risen, leading to violence against marginalized groups without any repercussions for the perpetrators.
Restrictions on non-profits continue. The Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act (FCRA) is used to deny organizations the right to receive foreign donations. This situation is made worse by laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) that empower authorities to arrest individuals with little evidence.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRCI) has been ineffective in tackling the rising violations. Consequently, a global body delayed re-accreditation of the NHRCI until it meets the UN’s Standards.
Discriminatory laws, such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), and other policies targeting religious minorities continue to cause unrest. These laws, which favor certain religions, have led to fears of widespread disenfranchisement among Muslims. Moreover, state-sanctioned violence against these groups is escalating and largely goes unpunished.
The situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains dire, with intense restrictions on freedom and ongoing detainments. Furthermore, ethnic violence in Manipur has resulted in significant casualties, and the government’s response has been inadequate.
Indian authorities also employ technology to clamp down on freedom of expression. Frequent internet shutdowns disproportionately affect the impoverished communities who rely on online resources for support. Legislation like the Personal Data Protection Act and the Information Technology Act allows further surveillance and monitoring of citizens.
There are alarming reports of Indian agents allegedly targeting dissenters overseas, raising concerns about transnational repression. Recent accusations have emerged regarding involvement in serious crimes abroad, including threats against those critical of the Indian government.
Despite these pressing issues, the EU’s public statements regarding human rights in India have been minimal. Although discussions occur privately, there has been little concrete action demanded from Indian authorities.
As the College of Commissioners prepares for dialogue with Indian leaders, we recommend that human rights be at the forefront of discussions. Key actions include:
- Release individuals jailed for peacefully protesting and drop unfounded charges against activists and journalists.
- Revise the UAPA and FCRA to align with international human rights standards.
- Investigate ethnically motivated killings in Manipur.
- Repeal laws that infringe on civil liberties in Jammu and Kashmir and hold military personnel accountable for abuses.
- Condemn and halt discrimination against minorities, with public commitments from leadership to protect their rights.
- Protect media freedom by eliminating restrictive laws and allowing foreign journalists to operate freely.
- End harmful internet shutdowns and ensure restrictions comply with legal standards.
- Investigate reports of foreign repression and ensure accountability for human rights violations.
The EU must link its bilateral relations with India to tangible improvements in human rights. Our collective future depends on upholding human dignity and ensuring justice for all.
Thank you for considering these vital issues. We look forward to continuing this important conversation.
