U.S. Report Highlights Growing Concerns Over India's Treatment of Minorities

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom criticized India's treatment of minorities, recommending sanctions against India's intelligence agency for assassination plots against Sikh separatists. The report also highlighted Vietnam's increased control over religious affairs. Despite the criticisms, sanctions against India's spy agency are unlikely.

The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom has raised alarms over the treatment of minorities in India, urging targeted sanctions against the country's external spy agency for alleged involvement in assassination plots against Sikh separatists.

This annual report also highlights Vietnam's efforts to regulate religious affairs, recommending both countries be labeled 'countries of particular concern' due to their human rights records. Despite these findings, Washington is unlikely to sanction India's intelligence service, a decision influenced by long-term geopolitical strategies.

Accusations against Indian intelligence operations in the U.S. have further strained relations. Indian government officials maintain their stance against discrimination, despite mounting international concerns about treatment of minorities, hate speech, and controversial policies.

(With inputs from agencies.)