Religious Freedom in Peril: U.S. Panel Calls Out India and Vietnam

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom's latest report highlights deteriorating conditions for religious minorities in India, and urges sanctions against India's spy agency for alleged plots against Sikh separatists. Vietnam faces critique for increased regulation of religious affairs. Both India's and Vietnam's governments reject the report's findings.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom's 2024 report claims worsening conditions for religious minorities in India, recommending sanctions on its spy agency. Allegations include plots against Sikh separatists, while India accuses the report of political bias.

Hindu nationalist Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his BJP are critiqued for inciting anti-minority rhetoric. Washington overlooks these issues, focusing on strategic ties with India and Vietnam despite human rights critiques.

Vietnam is accused of increasing control over religious groups, facing calls for a 'country of particular concern' designation. India and Vietnam reject the panel's findings.

(With inputs from agencies.)